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On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, Kenyan-born Winfred Yawi won the gold medal for Bahrain in the women’s 3000m steeplechase at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The 24-year-old set a new Olympic record with a time of 8:52.76, breaking the previous mark set in 2008 when the event was introduced for women.
In a post-race interview, Yawi spoke about why she represented Bahrain instead of Kenya, explaining that Bahrain gave her a chance after she competed in Kenya’s qualifying events but failed to qualify several times.
“The reason I didn’t get the chance to represent Kenya was because I participated in the Kenyan trials but didn’t qualify. Bahrain gave me the opportunity and made it a priority, but I am ready and willing to represent my country,” she says.
Yawi stressed that competition among Kenyan athletes is fierce, making it very difficult to secure a spot.
“The competition is very fierce. In Kenya, we have so many athletes and it is very challenging to get into the Kenya track and field team. They only pick a few, so if you finish third or fourth, you miss out.” Winfred Yavi pointed out.
Despite her hard work, Yawi said she never had the chance to represent Kenya. She recalled that in 2016, she finished third but missed out on the Kenyan youth team because only two athletes were selected.
“I trained hard but missed it. Bahrain gave me an opportunity and I took it. It became my priority,” She explained.
Yavi also mentioned that she draws inspiration from veteran professional athletes and teammates who are progressing in their careers.
“The hard work behind the scenes helped me a lot. I started to perform well and that dedication allowed me to win this medal and become world champion.” she says.
As for how she got the opportunity to represent Bahrain, Yawi revealed that a contact at the Bahrain athletics team facilitated the connection. After a meeting with her parents and coaches, she moved to Bahrain.
However, the decision has drawn mixed reactions from her close friends, acquaintances and athletes who have faced similar choices.
She admits to facing many challenges and negative reactions from many people.
“People questioned my decision; some were concerned about whether I could achieve my dream and do well on the track. It was challenging because everyone had a different opinion.” she says.
“I wasn’t in great shape at the time and had just started training. I wasn’t a pro yet, but I managed to cope with the situation.” she added.
At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Yawi prevented Perut Chemutai of Uganda from winning a second consecutive gold medal and forced Faith Cherotich of Kenya to settle for bronze.
Meanwhile, world record holder and Commonwealth Games champion Beatrice Chepkoge of Kenya was sixth.
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