Chemutai and Cherop Eye Strong Performances at Wanda Diamond League Opener in China

Peruth Chemutai, a two-time Olympic medalist, is making her comeback at the season-opening Wanda Diamond League event in Shaoxing, China, this weekend.

This will be Chemutai’s first race since a disappointing fall during the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo last September, where she twisted her ankle and was forced to withdraw. Her coach, Denis Okudach, stated that the primary goal is to assess her improved hurdle technique following specialized coaching in the Netherlands.

Chemutai will face stiff competition, including reigning world champion Faith Cherotich of Kenya and former world champion Norah Jeruto. She is also joined by fellow Ugandans Charity Cherop and Keneth Kiprop for the event.

Young long-distance runner Charity Cherop, 18, will compete in the women’s 5000 metres. Her personal best is 15 minutes and 6.84 seconds, and the objective is for her to achieve a significant personal best. Cherop has been in good form, recently winning bronze at the World Athletics Cross-country Championships and securing victories in Spain and Uganda.

Keneth Kiprop, 21, is set to race in the men’s 3000 metres, aiming to improve his personal best of 7:50.69. Coaches Okudach and Addy Ruiter are focused on developing Cherop and Kiprop with the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics in mind.

The Wanda Diamond League event in Shanghai/Keqiao will feature Ugandans competing across several disciplines on Saturday.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda) https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/athletics/chemutai-cherop-want-fast-starts-in-china-5458864