By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Japan, 19 November 2025 - Kenya celebrated a triumphant day at the Summer Deaflympics in Tokyo, highlighted by a remarkable performance from rising star James Mwanza Musembi.
The 21-year-old from Machakos County raced to glory in the men’s 1,500 metres, capturing gold after finishing in an impressive 3:45.61 at the Komazawa Olympic Park Stadium.
Joining Musembi on the podium, fellow Kenyan Elikana Kiprop Rono claimed the silver medal with a time of 3:50.22.
In the women's 1,500 metres, Sharon Bitok Jeptarus secured the bronze, clocking 4:43.65. This string of victories boosted Kenya’s overall medal haul at the Tokyo Deaflympics to seven: two gold, three silver, and two bronze medals so far.
Musembi’s commanding display saw him lead the field from the outset, delighting spectators as he maintained his front-runner status throughout.
Expressing his joy, Musembi remarked on his achievement, his enthusiasm evident after his powerful finish.
Coach Samuel Kibet, overseeing the Kenyan Deaf Athletics team, shared his admiration for Musembi. He noted the athlete’s immense promise, having witnessed his strengths during national trials.
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Kibet suggested that Musembi could emerge as a key figure in international deaf middle-distance races in the coming years.
Kenya’s hopes for a clean podium sweep in the men's event were dashed when former champion John Koech finished fourth with a time of 3:59.35 after a determined late charge.
In the women’s contest, Russian athlete Jullia Emilyevna won gold by completing the race in 4:39.65, with Portugal’s Mira Da Silva M close behind for silver in 4:40.60.
Other Kenyan participants in the women’s 1,500 metres included Viola Jelimo, who finished ninth in 4:55.52, and Rebecca Matiko, who came fourteenth at 5:08.35. Sharon Bitok Jeptarus fought hard in the final moments to secure her third-place finish, adding bronze to her medal collection.
Previously, Bitok earned three silver medals at the 2022 Deaflympics in Brazil across multiple events.
At these Tokyo Games, she is set to compete in the women's 800m, aiming for further success.
Kenya’s athletes continue to shine at the Tokyo Deaflympics, inspiring hope for more victories as the competition progresses.
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