Ng’etich targets Tokyo double after Paris Olympics setback

The women’s 10km world record holder Agnes Ng’etich will attempt an ambitious distance double at the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo.

Ng’etich has already secured qualification in the 5,000m and 10,000m race as she hopes to atone to her failed 2024 Olympic Games bid through injury.

The World Athletics has set the 10,000m qualifying mark at 30:20 and 14:50 5,000m. Athletes can qualify through performances on either road or track.

With her stunning 10km world record of 28:40 set in January 2024 in Valencia, alongside a blistering 5km time of 14:13 on the same course, the 24-year-old Ng’etich is well within the entry marks.

“I will compete in the 5000m and 10,000m at the World Championships. Doubling in Tokyo is my main target,” she said.

“Missing the Olympics was tough since I had an injury that kept me out of the trials. I am now fully focused on the road ahead.”

Ng’etich opens her track season at the Grand Slam Track meet in Jamaica from April 4-6, competing in the 3000m and 5000m.

“These races will sharpen my speed as I prepare for Tokyo,” she explained.

Her Grand Slam tour will include stops in Miami (May 2-4), Philadelphia (May 30-June 1) and Los Angeles (June 27-29). The Kenyan trials for the World Championships will follow on July 24-26 at the Nyayo Stadium.

Buoyed by her world record and a 1:03:04 personal best over 21km (just 12 seconds shy of Letesenbet Gidey’s world record), Ng’etich believes she is primed for a standout season.

“Holding the 10km world record is a huge motivation. Missing out on the half marathon record last year has fueled my drive to push my limits,” she said.

Ng’etich began her 2025 campaign in dominant fashion, storming to victory at the Sirikwa Classic World Cross Country Tour on Saturday, dismantling a high-calibre field with a commanding 32:42 finish.

She left Janeth Chepng’etich (33:52) and Miriam Chebet (34:09) trailing in her wake. She attributes her success to discipline, patience and relentless hard work.

“The secret is being patient, putting in hard work and being disciplined. It’s important to run clean and I would urge athletes to run in the right way and avoid shortcuts,” she said.