✕

Edmund Serem leads stunning Kenyan 1-2-3 in Commonwealth steeplechase

Athletics
By Robert Abong'o | Jul 28, 2026
Kenya's Edmund Serem celebrates as he crosses the finish line to win the men's 3000m steeplechase final during the athletics event at the Scotstoun Stadium in Glasgow, on day four of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, on July 27, 2026. (ANDY BUCHANAN / AFP)

Kenya’s historic chokehold on the men’s 3,000-meter steeplechase shows no sign of loosening. Rising distance star Edmund Serem spearheaded a spectacular podium lock-out, ensuring his nation captured all three medals and extended its remarkable Commonwealth streak to 10 consecutive titles on Monday night in Glasgow.

Serem powered to gold with a clocking of 8:18.23, holding off team-mate Simon Koech (8:18.59), who took silver. Leonard Bett crossed the line in 8:21.63 to secure bronze, completing the clean sweep.

Even with a heavyweight field that boasted reigning world champion George Beamish, the Kenyan trio stamped their authority on the race from the opening gun. Koech dictated the early, measured pace, flanked by Bett and Serem as the group held back during the initial tactical laps.

The race broke open with three laps remaining when Serem made his move, cranking up the tempo. While Bett began to lose touch with the leaders, the Kenyan triad nevertheless created daylight between themselves and the rest of the field, effectively turning the final laps into an intra-team battle for medal positions.

As the bell sounded for the final lap, Serem unleashed a devastating gear change. Dropping Koech on the final bend, he stormed down the home straight to capture his maiden Commonwealth title.

"Today I am very happy. I have won my first title at my first Commonwealth Games. I know my family and 50 million Kenyans are happy. More so, we achieved a clean sweep for Kenya," Serem reflected after his victory.

The victory adds another marquee accolade to Serem’s growing resume, building on his 2024 African Championship title in Douala and his bronze-medal performance at the Tokyo World Championships.

Share this story
Kenyan swimmers improve despite missing medals in Dakar
For Team Kenya swimmers in Dakar, they have been on a learning curve that has seen them improve stroke by stroke though missing on the podium may not be a true reflection of their achievements.
FKF NEC members assured of a fair hearing during SGM in Meru
The SGM comes against the backdrop of a divided federation following a frosty relationship between president Hussein Mohammed and his deputy McDonald Mariga.
Kamworor vouches for cross country as Chepsaita is launched
Geoffrey Kamworor has urged young athletes to embrace cross country as a foundation for successful athletics careers ahead of the 2026 Chepsaita Cross Country Run.
From Western to the coast, Mulembe brings Ingokho spirit to Diani
Mulembe Golfing Society is taking its Western Kenyan culture, camaraderie and love of golf to Diani for a coastal tournament.
Liverpool's perfect Champions League run ends in Istanbul
Liverpool suffered a 3-2 defeat to Fenerbahce in Istanbul as Como stunned Lens 9-1 in a record-equalling Champions League night.
.
RECOMMENDED NEWS