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Kip Keino Classic: Serem claims steeplechase crown
Edmund Serem of Kenya wins the 3,000m steeplechase ahead of Ethiopian Dinka Fikadu during the Absa Kip Keino Classic on May 31, 2025, at Ulinzi Sports Complex.
What you need to know:
- Serem clocked 8:27.68 to edge out a strong Ethiopian challenge from Dinka Fikadu, who finished second in 8:27.97, and Gemechu Godana, who placed third in 8:31.82.
World Under-20 3,000 metres steeplechase champion, Edmund Serem of Kenya, is the new Absa Kip Keino Classic 3,000m steeplechase champion after a hard-fought victory at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Saturday.
Serem clocked 8:27.68 to edge out a strong Ethiopian challenge from Dinka Fikadu, who finished second in 8:27.97, and Gemechu Godana, who placed third in 8:31.82.
“The race was a bit tough since I felt fatigued after running last Saturday in Rabat. I had no time to train or do anything. But I am over the moon,” said Serem, who had finished third in the Rabat Diamond League in 8:07.47.
Serem, who placed eighth in last year’s Kip Keino Classic—won by Olympic bronze medallist Abraham Kibiwott—said this victory is a major step in his preparations for the World Athletics Championships, scheduled for September 13–21 in Tokyo, Japan.
“It gives me a good foundation ahead of the World Championships,” said the African silver medallist.
“I want to thank the fans for cheering me to victory. It inspires me to perform well at the World Championships.”
Meanwhile, Norway’s Amalie Iuel successfully defended her Absa Kip Keino Classic women’s 400m hurdles title in record-breaking style.
She stormed to victory in 54.80 seconds, breaking her own Meet Record of 54.89 set last year at Nyayo National Stadium.