Ian Wambui breaks 5,000m world record, leads Kenyan podium sweep at 2025 Deaflympics
Earlier on Monday, Kenya's Viola Jelimo added a bronze to the country’s medal tally in the women's 5,000m, finishing in 17:26.83.
Ian Wambui extended his remarkable run at the 2025 Summer Deaflympics in Tokyo, Japan, on Monday, claiming his second gold medal with a record-breaking performance in the men's 5,000m.
Wambui completed the race in 13:52.83, shattering the previous world and Deaflympics record of 14:02.90 set by Symon Kibai in Sofia, Bulgaria, in 2013.
More To Read
- Anti-doping agency denies role in Edward Zakayo’s retirement amid disciplinary controversy
- Kenya shines in Tokyo, claims 7 golds and second spot at World Athletics Championships
- Tributes flow as steeplechase star Jairus Birech passes away at 32
- Faith Kipyegon’s 1500m world record in Eugene officially ratified
- Kenya’s mixed 4x400m relay team disqualified despite record run in Tokyo
- Kenyan half-marathoner Judy Jelagat Kemboi suspended over doping
His victory also capped a Kenyan sweep of the podium at Komazawa Olympic Park, with James Musembi taking silver in 14:15.28 and Nelson Kipkorir earning bronze in 14:43.35.
"This is my first time breaking a world record, so I feel very proud. I followed the instructions I was given by the coaches, I listened to my body, and I have done so well," said Wambui, who had already won gold in the men's 10,000m last week.
"I thought Musembi was going to defeat me, so I kept him in check. I decided to burn him out on the third lap, after which I never looked back till I achieved my objective."
Silver medal
Competing in his first Deaflympics, Musembi celebrated his silver medal and praised Wambui's record-breaking run, adding to his earlier gold in the men's 1,500m.
"It is so good, I feel excited. Ian is a very good athlete," he said.
Earlier on Monday, Kenya's Viola Jelimo added a bronze to the country’s medal tally in the women's 5,000m, finishing in 17:26.83.
Portugal's Mira Da Silva took gold in a nail-biting finish at 17:26.23, with Abubiakirova Luiia Emiyevna claiming silver just ahead of Jelimo at 17:26.78.
However, not every event went Kenya's way. The men's 4x400m relay team—comprising Simon Menza, Isaac Erot, Isaac Atima, and Edwin Kipngeno—missed out on a medal after Menza was tripped mid-race. Kenya's subsequent appeal was dismissed, ending the team’s chance at the podium.
With Monday’s results, Kenya has now amassed 14 medals at the Tokyo Games: five gold, five silver, and four bronze, maintaining its impressive record of success at the Summer Deaflympics.
Top Stories Today
Reader Comments
Trending
