Mercy Oketch: The New Face of Kenyan Sprinting on the Global Stage

 By Gilbert Mmbaya. 

Mercy Oketch has emerged as the new queen of Kenyan sprinting, capturing the nation’s attention and placing herself firmly on the global athletics map following a record-breaking performance at the 2025 Kip Keino Classic.

The 22-year-old sprint sensation clocked an astonishing 50.14 seconds in the women’s 400m race at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi, smashing the previous national record of 50.38 seconds set by Commonwealth champion Mary Moraa. The feat also earned her automatic qualification for the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

"I have been working very hard, especially on my start and race execution. Breaking the national record is a big motivation, but it’s just the beginning," Oketch said after the race.

The Migori-born athlete has been rising steadily through the ranks. From her early days in school competitions to joining the Kenya Defence Forces athletics team, Oketch has shown resilience and dedication. She was also part of the Kenyan mixed 4x400m relay team that won bronze at the World Relays in Guangzhou earlier this year, further proving her versatility and strength on the track.

Her victory in Nairobi was not only a personal triumph but a statement that Kenya is ready to challenge for global honours in sprint events – a space traditionally dominated by nations like the United States and Jamaica.

“Kenya is often known for middle and long-distance running. It’s exciting to see sprinters like Mercy bringing new attention to the sprints,” said Athletics Kenya official Paul Mutwii.

Oketch’s journey is a story of determination, hard work, and breaking boundaries. With her eyes now firmly set on the World Championships in Tokyo this September, she remains focused on continuing to improve and represent Kenya with pride.

"I want to show the world that Kenyan sprinters can compete with the best," she added.

As she prepares for her biggest stage yet, Mercy Oketch carries the hopes of a nation hungry for sprint success. Her rise signals a new chapter for Kenyan athletics — one where speed, strength, and ambition collide on the global track.