Ethiopian teenager Hawi Abera delivered a standout performance to claim victory in the women’s 1500 meters at the ABSA Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi. Hawi clocked a swift 4:06.52. The 16-year-old showcased remarkable poise and speed, edging out a strong Kenyan challenge in a tightly contested race.
However, Kenya’s Purity Chepkirui pushed hard throughout, finishing a close second with 4:06.97, just fractions behind Hawi Abera. Ethiopia’s Ksanet Alem also impressed with a season-best 4:07.15 to claim third place, rounding out a fiercely competitive podium.
Meanwhile, the race featured a blend of emerging talents and seasoned athletes, with Ethiopia’s Axumawit Embaye finishing fourth in 4:08.04. Kenya’s Faith Chebet and Uganda’s Knight Aciru, who set a season-best 4:13.43, rounded out the top six.
Young Kenyan Mary Nyaboke Ogwoka ran a personal best of 4:15.90, signalling her potential to rise in the ranks, while other competitors from Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda battled hard in the middle-distance classic.
The event saw Kenya’s Vicody Chemutai unfortunately unable to finish the race.
Abera’s victory at the ABSA Kip Keino Classic marks a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. Highlighting her as one of the most exciting prospects in women’s middle-distance running. As the athletics season heats up, all eyes will be on Hawi Abera and her rivals as they prepare for upcoming global championships.
