Kenya opened its campaign strongly at the 2026 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Kujawy Pomorze, Poland, with standout performances from Noah Kibet, Mercy Oketch, and Brian Tinega on day one in Toruń.
2022 World Indoor silver medallist Noah Kibet led the charge in the men’s 800m, dominating heat six to book a spot in the semi-finals with a time of 1:45.84. Kibet, competing at his fourth global indoor championships, finished ahead of Poland’s Maciej Wyderka, who clocked 1:46.15. The 21-year-old displayed composure and determination, signalling his intent for another podium finish.
In the women’s 400m, national indoor record holder Mercy Oketch impressed with a 51.08-second run, finishing second in heat six behind Portugal’s Lurdes Gloria Manuel to advance to the semi-finals.
“Let’s wait for the semi-finals. Just hope for the best. It’s my first time, so I’m still learning and gaining more experience,” Oketch said.
Debutant Brian Tinega also made an impact in the men’s 400m, finishing second in heat five with a time of 46.21 seconds, behind Canada’s Christopher Morales Williams, who clocked 45.21. Tinega, who trains in the United States to access indoor facilities lacking in Kenya, noted:
“In Africa, we don’t have indoor tracks, so it is hard to get facilities. That’s why I went to school in the US to get good facilities and training.”
However, Kenya’s 800m debutantes Rosemary Longisa and Gladys Chepngetich bowed out in the heats. Longisa finished her heat in 2:03.48, while Chepngetich clocked 2:02.23. Both athletes acknowledged the challenge of competing indoors against seasoned professionals but remain optimistic about future championships.
Kenya’s campaign continues tonight with Susan Ejore competing in the women’s 1500m at 8:42 pm, followed by Festus Lagat in the men’s 1500m at 8:54 pm, as the nation looks to maintain its strong showing on the global stage.
