Winfred Yavi of Bahrain won the women’s 3,000 meters steeplechase at the World Athletics Championships, surging past world record holder Beatrice Chepkoech of Kenya over the final 400 metres to claim victory. Yavi, 23, crossed the finish line in a world-leading time of eight minutes 54.29 seconds, the fourth fastest time in history. Chepkoech finished second in 8:58.98, while Faith Cherotich of Kenya took the bronze in 9:00.69. Yavi said she was ‘really excited’ to win the gold medal.
“I knew I would have the power on the last lap,” she said. “It was perfect. I have never felt like this before. After finishing fourth at the past two world championships, the gold medal gives me additional motivation to train hard.” Chepkoech’s world record of 8:44.32 was set in 2018. She finished well back in seventh at the Tokyo Olympics and withdrew ahead of last year’s worlds in Eugene with an injury.
“This silver feels like gold to me,” said Chepkoech, who has battled both a hamstring injury and stress fracture in her ankle. “The last few years have been tough due to my injury.” Cherotich, 19, captured the bronze in a personal best time. She is the first teenager to climb the world medal podium in the event.
“It is a huge responsibility to represent your country,” said Cherotich, who won the world under-20 title last year. “I am very surprised to know that I am the first teenager who got a medal. Now I am looking forward to being highly prepared for the Olympics. Why not? Everything is possible for people who believe in themselves.” The women’s 3,000 meters steeplechase was the last individual race of the championships. Fans were treated to a thrilling event featuring nine of the world’s 10 fastest women this year.