Tokyo 2025: Kenyan Trials for Women’s 5000m & Men’s 10,000m Set for Prefontaine Classic

KASS Sport

 

The countdown to the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 2025 is officially on—and Kenya’s journey to glory begins at none other than the iconic Prefontaine Classic in Oregon.

 

Athletics Kenya has confirmed that the 2025 edition of this world-renowned Diamond League meet, set for July 5 at Hayward Field, will serve as the official selection trials for Kenya’s women’s 5000m and men’s 10,000m squads.

 

With the grandeur of the legendary University of Oregon venue and the high stakes of international selection, the stage is perfectly set for an electrifying showdown.

 

 

This year’s trials bring back memories of last season’s spectacle, where Beatrice Chebet lit up the track with a sensational world record of 28:54.14 in the women’s 10,000m—securing her spot for the Paris Olympics.

 

She went on to make history in Paris, clinching double gold in both the 5000m and 10,000m, solidifying her legacy as one of the finest distance runners of her time.

 

She wasn’t alone on that memorable day—Lilian Kasait and Margaret Chelimo finished right behind her, clocking 29:26.89 and 29:27.59 respectively. In any other race, those times would’ve been front-page news. In Oregon, they were part of a Kenyan masterclass.

 

As the Tokyo World Championships approach, anticipation is building. Kenya’s best will battle it out for national pride and a place on the world stage, racing not just against the clock, but against each other. With a rich legacy behind them and dreams of Tokyo medals ahead, the competition promises nothing short of fireworks.

 

 

Athletics Kenya has lauded the Prefontaine Classic as an ideal setting—offering both elite-level competition and top-tier facilities. The federation is confident that the trials will shape a powerful team capable of dominating in Tokyo.

 

Meanwhile, the men’s 5000m and women’s 10,000m trials will take place later at the National Trials, ensuring every athlete has a fair shot at representing the nation at the highest level.