ATHLETICS
Frank Rotich 3 days ago

Kenya's relay team books slot for 2027 World Championships after breaking African record

Kenya's 4x400m mixed relay team. [Courtesy Athletics Kenya]

Kenya’s mixed 4x400m relay team has booked a place at the 2027 World Athletics Championships after a brilliant and record-breaking performance at the World Athletics Relays in Gaborone.

The Kenyan quartet clocked an impressive 3:09.87, setting a new African record and finishing second in their heat behind Great Britain. This strong start not only secured qualification but also showed Kenya’s growing strength in relay races.

The race began with George Mutinda, who kept the team in contention despite placing fifth in the opening leg. The turning point came when Mercy Oketch took over in the second leg. She delivered a powerful run, moving Kenya into the lead and changing the momentum of the race.

Kelvin Tonui then maintained the lead with a calm and steady third leg before Mercy Chebet sealed victory in style as the anchor runner.

Oketch has been in excellent form this season. She recently set a world-leading time in the 300m and has consistently delivered strong performances in the 400m, while Chebet has also shown great improvement with personal best times.

With qualification secured, Kenya will now focus on the final set for Sunday. They will face tough competition from Great Britain and Italy as they aim for a podium finish.

Meanwhile, in the 4x100m relay, Kenya finished fifth and will have another chance to qualify in an additional race scheduled for Sunday.

The top six teams in the mixed 4x400m will also earn spots in the World Athletics Ultimate Championship later this year, adding more motivation for Team Kenya as they continue their impressive run on the global stage.