A new wave of Kenyan athletic brilliance was on full display at Nakuru's Afraha Stadium on June 21, 2025, during the CAA Under-18 and Under-20 National Trials. This highly anticipated two-day event served as the critical qualifier for the national team, with promising young talents battling fiercely for a spot in the upcoming 2025 African Under-18 and Under-20 Championship, scheduled to take place in Nigeria in August. The trials delivered not only a series of impressive victories but also offered clear glimpses into a potentially golden future for Kenyan athletics, highlighting a deep pool of emerging talent across various disciplines.

Among the most significant standouts were brothers Ronald Kipkoech and Brian Kiptoo, both hailing from the South Rift region. In a dramatic and fiercely contested Under-20 men’s 10,000m final, Ronald Kipkoech delivered a gutsy performance that kept the crowd on its feet. Engaged in a neck-and-neck battle with Edwin Elkana of Western, the race culminated in a breathtaking photo finish, with Elkana securing the win in a time of 28:24.13, just milliseconds ahead of Kipkoech, who crossed the line at 28:24.32. Elkana, reflecting on his performance, noted, “It was not easy, but I pushed through. It was my first time racing 10,000m — now I know where to improve.” Ronald Kipkoech, already known for podium finishes at both the Kisii and Chepsaita Under-20 cross country meets, expressed satisfaction with his second-place finish at Afraha.

Further solidifying the family's athletic prowess, Ronald's younger brother, Brian Kiptoo, stormed to a resounding victory in the Under-18 boys’ 2000m steeplechase. Clocking an impressive 5:31.96, Brian decisively secured his ticket to represent Kenya in Nigeria. Ronald Kipkoech proudly commented on their shared achievement: “I am proud of what we have achieved. We worked hard for this, and representing Kenya together with my brother means everything.” Their performances underscored the trials as a platform for sibling success and national pride.

The trials were a broad showcase of talent, extending beyond long-distance events to sprints and middle-distance races. Clinton Aluvi from the Central region delivered a commanding performance, achieving a sprint double in the Under-20 men's category, winning the 100m in 10.55 seconds and the 200m in 21.02 seconds. In the Under-18 girls’ sprints, Melvin Kerubo from Nyanza South demonstrated her class, finishing the 100m in 13.04 seconds and the 200m in 26.57 seconds. Her Nyanza South compatriot, Brian Akoth, showcased remarkable consistency by securing second place in both Under-18 boys’ sprints, with times of 10.66 seconds in the 100m and 21.34 seconds in the 200m.

Middle-distance events also saw exceptional performances. Lawi Kiplangat Ngetich from Central Rift starred in the Under-18 boys’ 800m, clocking an impressive 1:48.89, and also competed strongly in the 1500m. In the Under-20 women’s 3000m, Miriam Chemutai Kibet delivered a stunning and unexpected victory with a blistering run of 9:08.05. Chemutai, surprised by her own success after a tough season, remarked, “I did not expect a win today. It was not easy, but I just did my best.”

Other notable triumphs included Nairobi's Nancy Chepngetich claiming the Under-20 women’s 800m win in 2:04.66, while Judy Chepkoech powered to victory in the 1500m. In the Under-20 men’s 5000m, South Rift's Dennis Kipkoech and Frankline Kibet demonstrated their dominance. Additionally, Cynthia Chepkurui from Nairobi impressed with a rare and significant double victory in the Under-18 girls’ 3000m. These collective results reinforced the depth of talent emerging from across Kenya.

Overall, the Afraha trials were more than just a competition; they were a profound statement of intent for the future of Kenyan athletics. The performances showcased the dedication, talent, and competitive spirit of the nation's rising stars, indicating a strong foundation for future international success as they prepare to represent Kenya on the continental stage in Nigeria.