Team Kenya concluded its track and field campaign at the Scotstoun Stadium yesterday with a strong final showing, capturing four medals on the closing day of action.
Irene Jepkemboi delivered a throw of 57.85m to secure a bronze medal in the women javelin.
Australia dominated the top spots with Mackenzie Little taking gold (61.88m) and Tori Moorby claiming silver (60.04m).
Reflecting on her journey and the influence of her mentor, former world champion Julius Yego, the 22-year-old Irene Jepkemboi shared her inspiring transition into the discipline: “Bringing the bronze to Kenya is something big, and personally, I’m so happy for achieving that,” Jepkemboi stated. “I used to play football, but football was a bit challenging because it is a team sport—when you lose, you lose as a team. I was strong enough, and I used to watch Julius Yego a long time ago. His techniques and style were something that was inspiring to many.
Today, standing with Julius Yego inspired me in many things. He was telling me to relax, relax myself, and try to do something I usually do—not something new that you saw from other people that you don’t know. And I did. That’s why I bring the bronze.
Right now, I’m the only one in Kenya throwing javelin, and I’m requesting javelin throwers to get someone who can challenge me. We can use the available things and be focused with what you are doing, and at the end of the day, you will get support from people who have a good heart.”
When asked about her relationship with Yego, who coaches her, Jepkemboi added: “I will say he is like my brother, because I can talk freely with him—anything, everything, anytime. We share everything concerning the field.”