By Debra Rono
Sarah Moraa, cousin of the renowned 800m champion Mary Moraa, has elevated the Moraa name by winning the gold medal in the 800m event at the U20 Championships held in Lima.
Her performance was nothing short of extraordinary, as she demonstrated exceptional skill and determination by leading the race from start to finish. Storming the finishing line with a time of 2:00.36, ahead of Australia’s Claudia Hollingsworth, who clocked in at 2:00.87, and the bronze medalist Sophia Gorriarian from the USA, who completed the race in 2:01.04.
A former student of Mugunga Secondary School, Sarah earlier this year, achieved a significant milestone by winning the African Games title in Accra, Ghana, further establishing her reputation as a rising star in middle-distance running.
However, despite her remarkable achievements, Sarah faced disappointment as she did not qualify for the upcoming Paris Olympics in 2024.
This gold medal contributes to Kenya’s total of five medals at the World Athletics U20 Championships, following the commendable performances of fellow Kenyan athletes, including Dennis Kipkoech, who secured a silver medal in the men’s 3000m steeplechase, and Diana Chepkemoi, who earned a bronze medal in the women’s event, both concluded on Friday, August 30, 2024.
The World Athletics U20 Championships Lima 24, which has showcased 1,700 athletes representing over 130 teams, will come to a close today, Saturday, August 31, 2024, after five days of competition.