Kenya poised for historic podium sweep in women’s 800m at Tokyo Worlds

Kenya is on the verge of rewriting middle-distance history as three of its stars — defending champion Mary Moraa, Sarah Moraa, and Lilian Odira — stormed into the women’s 800m final at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, following commanding performances in their respective semifinal heats on Friday, September 19.

The triple qualification sets up a tantalizing opportunity for a Kenyan clean sweep in the two-lap showdown — a feat yet to be achieved on this global stage.

Reigning world champion and Paris Olympic bronze medalist, Mary Moraa, once again showcased her world-class tactical acumen and explosive finishing kick in the first semifinal.

Settling into fourth through the opening lap, Moraa gradually moved up the field, keeping her rhythm controlled yet alert. At the 700m mark, she shifted gears with surgical precision, storming past Jamaica’s Natoya Goule-Toppin and Britain’s Georgia Bell in the home straight.

Moraa stopped the clock at 1:58.40, asserting her dominance and advancing with ease. Bell secured the second automatic spot in 1:58.62, while a fading Goule-Toppin — who had led most of the race — drifted to fifth, missing out on the final.

In the second semifinal, Lilian Odira navigated a tense and tactical contest, maintaining contact with the lead pack while hovering between fourth and fifth position.

But with 100m to go, Odira unleashed a decisive surge, powering through the line to take the win in 1:58.85. Swiss teenager Audrey Werro joined her in the final, clocking 1:56.99, the second-fastest time overall.

The final semifinal heat delivered the drama of the night. Sarah Moraa — lining up against Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson — ran the race of her life.

After a steady opening lap, Moraa stayed tucked in behind the leaders before launching a fierce finishing drive down the final straight. She matched Hodgkinson stride for stride in a thrilling duel to the line, both athletes stopping the clock at 1:57.33 — a personal best for Moraa.

Though Hodgkinson was awarded the win in a photo finish, Moraa’s time comfortably secured her a place in the final. However, post-race concerns emerged as the Kenyan, heavily strapped on her left foot, collapsed in pain and had to be assisted off the track.

Her fitness status remains under assessment, and her participation in the final will depend on medical clearance.

In the men’s 5,000m heats, Matthew Kipchumba Kipsang ensured Kenya’s presence in the final after clocking 13:13.33 in Heat 2, securing his place among the world’s best.

With three formidable contenders in the women’s 800m final, Kenya stands on the brink of an iconic medal sweep — a potential moment of history in Tokyo.