Bahrain has just hit the jackpot at the Olympics, and it’s all thanks to the unstoppable Winfred Yavi. This Kenyan-born dynamo has not only bagged Bahrain’s third-ever Olympic gold medal but has also smashed a world record while doing it.
Earlier this week, Yavi sprinted her way to victory in the women’s 3,000m steeplechase, leaving defending champ Peruth Chemutai of Uganda behind. Her final time? A jaw-dropping 8 minutes, 52.76 seconds, setting a new Olympic record.
Yavi’s triumph is a monumental moment for Bahrain, marking only the third time the Gulf nation has clinched Olympic gold. “This is like a dream come true. It’s something special,” Yavi gushed after her victory lap. And she’s not just celebrating for herself; she’s waving the flag for Bahrain and showing the world that dreams do come true.
The 24-year-old’s journey to gold was anything but straightforward. Originally a fierce competitor in Kenya, Yavi switched her allegiance to Bahrain in 2016 after narrowly missing out on the Kenyan team. “I was totally ready, but I never got a chance,” she shared, reflecting on her competitive trials. But it seems fate had different plans. Kenya’s Faith Cherotich, not one to be overshadowed, took home the bronze, adding another layer of excitement to this steeplechase saga.
Now, with both the World and Olympic titles under her belt, Yavi is basking in the glory of her achievement.
ALSO READ: 21 PRE-FALL 2024 ITEMS THAT DESERVE A SPOT IN EVERY CHIC WOMAN’S CLOSET.
