Deaflympics: Wambui shatters World record as Kenya Dominates men’s 5,000m podium

November, 24 2025 - Kenya’s Ian Wambui delivered a historic performance at the Tokyo 2025 Summer Deaflympics, clinching the men’s 5,000m gold and breaking a world record that had stood for more than a decade. Wambui clocked an impressive 13:52.83 at Komazawa Olympic Park, surpassing the previous world and Deaflympics time of 14:02.90, which was established by Symon Kibai during the 2013 Sofia games.

The men’s 5,000m was dominated entirely by Kenyan athletes. James Musembi secured the silver medal with a time of 14:15.28, and Nelson Kipkorir earned the bronze in 14:43.35, completing a rare podium sweep for Kenya.

In the women’s division, Kenya’s Viola Jelimo claimed the bronze in 17:26.83. Portugal’s Mira Da Silva.M finished first with 17:26.23, narrowly edging out Russia’s Abubiakirova Luiia Emiyevna, who won silver in 17:26.78.

Following these triumphs, Kenya’s cumulative medal tally at these Games rose to 14: five gold, five silver, and four bronze medals. Wambui, who also won gold in the men’s 10,000m earlier in the week, added another chapter to his remarkable Games journey.

Wambui expressed his pride in breaking the longstanding record, attributing his achievement to disciplined preparation and strong coaching guidance. He specifically credited his family and athletics coach Samuel Kibet for their unwavering support. Wambui surged ahead of Musembi in the final laps to secure his win.

James Musembi, who took silver, described his excitement at sharing the podium with such formidable teammates, having already made his Deaflympics debut memorable with gold in the men’s 1,500m earlier in the week. Kipkorir, who claimed bronze, highlighted the importance of teamwork and mutual encouragement during both training and competition.