At the Ulinzi Sports Complex, Nairobi, Reynold Cheruiyot stunned fans and rivals alike by outpacing the experienced Timothy Cheruiyot to clinch the men’s 1500m national title at the Athletics Kenya National Trials.
Reynold crossed the finish line in a strong 3:37.23, demonstrating his growing dominance in middle-distance running.
Reynolds’ Breakthrough Season and Rising Stardom
Reynold Cheruiyot
At just 21 years old, Reynold Cheruiyot has rapidly established himself as one of Kenya’s premier middle-distance athletes.
This season, he has been in outstanding form, highlighted by a season-best 1500m time of 3:30.94 recorded in Rome and a remarkable victory in the 5000m at the Doha Diamond League in May 2025, marking his debut at that distance on the Diamond League circuit.
Reynold’s rise has been meteoric since winning gold at the 2022 World Athletics U20 Championships and setting the world U20 mile record in 2023.
He has consistently challenged top athletes, including Timothy Cheruiyot, whom he respects deeply and views as a role model despite not being related.
In recent months, Reynold Cheruiyot has shown versatility and strength, competing fiercely in both 1500m and 5000m events, earning podium finishes and solidifying his place on Kenya’s elite team.
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His victory at the national trials confirms his readiness to lead Kenya in the upcoming global championships.
On the other hand, Timothy Cheruiyot, a seasoned Olympic silver medallist and former world champion, pushed Reynold Cheruiyot hard but ultimately had to settle for second place.
Moreover, the thrilling duel between the two athletes signals a promising future for Kenyan middle-distance running. In both the international and national stages.
Since Reynold Cheruiyot has proven to be the man to beat this season, fans and analysts alike can’t wait to see how this thrilling drama between Kenya`s great athletes will unfold.
Will Timothy Cheruiyot reclaim his glory in the upcoming event? Only time will tell.