Mercy Chepkurui

Mercy Chepkurui (born 16 September 2000), also spelled Mercy Chepkirui, is a Kenyan steeplechase runner. She was the silver medalist in the 2000 m steeplechase at the 2017 World U20 Championships. As a senior athlete, her time of 6:00.31 in that event indoors makes her the 8th-fastest 2000 m steeplechase performer of all time.

Biography

Chepkurui attended Tinet High School in the Kuresoi South Constituency of Nakuru County, Kenya. At the championships, Chepkurui held a strong lead going in to the final lap, but she tumbled on the final water barrier putting compatriot Caren Chebet into contention. After being passed by Chebet, Chepkurui re-took the lead until 20 metres to the finish, when Chebet passed her again to win the world U18 title while Chepkurui took silver.

The following year, Chepkurui competed at the 2018 IAAF World U20 Championships, this time at the standard 3000 m steeplechase distance. She qualified for the final and placed 4th behind Celliphine Chespol (who was the second-fastest performer of all time), future Olympic gold medalist Peruth Chemutai, and future World champion Winfred Yavi.

In 2019, Chepkurui joined the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders track and field team.

Statistics

Personal bests Event Mark Place Competition Venue Date 3000 metres steeplechase 9:23.59 5th Shanghai Diamond League Shanghai, China 18 May 2019 3000 metres 8:56.35 7th Meeting Elite en Salle Féminin du Val d'Oise Eaubonne, France 17 February 2020