Kenya Shines in Tokyo Deaflympics as Ian Wambui Clinches 10,000m Gold

Kenya’s Ian Wambui claimed gold on Monday at the 2025 Summer Deaflympics, powering to victory in the men’s 10,000m race with a time of 29:19.56 at Tokyo’s Komazawa Olympic Park Gymnasium

Veteran David Kipkogei added to Kenya’s medal haul with a silver in 29:27.63, while China’s Xu Kuantian took bronze in 30:04.83

Team Kenya also impressed in the 4x400m mixed relay, where Isaac Atima, Linet Fwamba, Beryl Wamira, and Simon Menza secured silver in 3:40.05, finishing behind Ukraine

Speaking after his win, Wambui admitted he had been confident about medaling but was not certain about clinching gold. “I enjoyed my run. It felt like a normal day. I thank God for the win and hope Team Kenya continues performing well in the upcoming events,” he said

Wambui is now targeting a triple medal haul at the Games, aiming to defend his 1,500m title and upgrade his 5,000m medal from bronze to gold

Kipkogei, 46, celebrated his silver medal, reflecting on a career that spans multiple Deaflympics. “I’m happy I can still compete and win medals. Retirement is not on my mind yet,” he said, as he sets sights on the men’s marathon

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In the men’s 400m heats, Atima and Menza progressed to the semi-finals, both clocking 50.70 to win their respective heats

Kenya’s strong start in Tokyo continues to signal a promising campaign for the team as the 2025 Deaflympics progress

Writer : Mweru Mbugua