Deaflympics: Kipkogei Claims Marathon Silver as Kenya Concludes Tokyo Campaign With 15 Medals

Japan, 25 November 2025 - Kenya wrapped up its Tokyo 2025 Summer Deaflympics campaign on a high note as seasoned distance runner David Kiptum Kipkogei secured a silver medal in the men’s marathon on Tuesday.

The 46-year-old veteran clocked 2:17:30 on the Tokyo Expressway, finishing second to Sweden’s Otto Kingstedt, who stormed to victory in 2:16:10. Colombia’s Jose Libardo completed the podium in 2:23:50.

In the women’s marathon, Kenya missed out on a medal after Serah Kimani and Grancy Kandagor were unable to finish the race due to the tough conditions.

Kenya ends the Games with 15 medals — five gold, six silver, and four bronze — plus two world-class records, marking another strong showing on the global stage.

Tough Conditions Blunt Kenya’s Golden Ambitions

Heading into the final day, Kenya had hoped to secure gold in both marathon categories, but adverse weather had other plans. A combination of chilly morning temperatures and steady showers proved especially punishing.

Early in the men’s race, signs of promise emerged as Kipkogei and two-time Deaflympics marathon silver medalist Peter Toroitich controlled the leading pack. However, at the 30km mark, Toroitich was forced to withdraw after appearing to suffer a hamstring injury.

Left to carry Kenya’s charge alone, Kipkogei pushed on despite visible discomfort. With just under two kilometers remaining, Kingstedt launched a decisive surge that opened an insurmountable gap.

Kipkogei Proud Despite Missing Gold

After securing his second medal of the Games — having taken silver in the 10,000m the previous week — Kipkogei expressed gratitude and pride:

“I thank God because this was my first time running the marathon at the Deaflympics, and winning silver means a lot. My target was gold, but I struggled with leg cramps. Still, I’m grateful for this result.”