Pan African Visions

Fans go berserk after Kenya wins first gold medal in Tokyo Olympics.

August 05, 2021

By Samuel Ouma

Emmanuel Kipkurui Korir of Team Kenya celebrates winning the gold medal in the Men's 800m Final on day twelve of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on August 04, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Kenya finally won a gold medal after a 13-day of wait in the ongoing Tokyo Olympic Games that kicked off on July 23.

African Silver medalist Emmanuel Korir won Kenya’s first gold in the global event on Wednesday, August 4, 2021, after finishing first in the men’s 800m final.

Korir clocked 1:45:6 ahead of his compatriot Ferguson Rotich who came second in 1:45:23. Patryk Dobek of Poland came third, clocking 1:45:39.

The win is a reprieve for Korir, who was on Monday eliminated from the preliminary round of the men's 400m after a false start.

After the race, Kenyans from different walks of life flooded the social media platforms to celebrate the long-awaited victory.

“Yes. What a tactical run and strong finish, congratulations Emmanuel Korir on winning the 800m Olympic Gold Medal and Ferguson Rotich on taking the Silver Medal. The Entire Nation is proud of you both. Well in!" tweeted former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

“Congratulations our heroes! Thank you Emmanuel Korir and Ferguson Rotich for making us proud. We are happy,” said Senator James Orengo.

“Just when specks in #TokyoOlympics2020 appeared to veil nostalgia of #beijing2008 & #London2012 sparkles, a rekindle of Kenya's hopes as Emmanuel Korir and Ferguson Rotich dash for a resilient 1-2 finish in men's 800m. Kudos! Cheers!” said former lawmaker Kabando was Kabando.

Former National Assembly Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen said, “Congratulations Emmanuel Korir (Gold) Ferguson Rotich (Silver) in the Olympics men’s 800m. You have brightened our gloomy faces and lightened our hearts.”

So far, Kenya has bagged five medals, one gold, two silvers, and two bronzes.