Lead image for Chepkurui and Chepkemoi chase redemption in 5,000m final.
Missing the podium at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida, USA, in January left her in immense pain.
Kenya’s Cynthia Chepkurui finished fourth behind the Ethiopians Marta Alemayo and Wosane Asefa, and Uganda's Charity Cherop, who claimed the podium spots in that order in the women's Under-20 6 km race.
Having made Team Kenya again, for the World Athletics Under-20 Championships, which start today at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, USA, Chepkurui has promised a better performance.
That opportunity has presented itself today on the opening day of the championships, when Chepkurui and Joyline Chepkemoi will team up for the women’s 5,000 metres final, in which Kenya hopes to win its first medals.
Chepkurui and Chepkemoi face the challenging task of reclaiming the 5,000 metres title won by the reigning Olympic and World champion Beatrice Chebet in Tampere, Finland, in 2018.
"I have returned to the USA with renewed determination and a clear objective: to win a medal for Kenya. Missing out on a medal in the cross-country race was so painful, and only winning a medal at this championship will make me happy,” said Chepkurui. “We have not won in the last three editions, but I am confident of victory this time around.”
However, she warned that it won't be easy, as the Ethiopians and Ugandans are also in contention.
“Competition is getting tougher, so we are going to work together with Chepkemoi because I believe in teamwork,” added the 17-year-old.