Kenya’s Faith Cherotich shatters the Commonwealth Games record to win gold in the women’s 3000m steeplechase final at Glasgow 2026, beating Elise Thorner and Peruth Chemutai.
Faith Cherotich Smashes Commonwealth Record to Win Thrilling Steeplechase Gold
The athletics events at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games delivered a spectacular evening of drama, speed, and history-making performances at the Scotstoun Stadium. In the highly anticipated women’s 3000m steeplechase final, the crowd was treated to a masterclass in distance running. Kenya’s rising star Faith Cherotich put on a dominant display to capture the gold medal, breaking the official Commonwealth Games record in the process. In a thrilling twist behind her, England’s Elise Thorner delighted the home fans by snatching the silver medal, while Uganda’s former Olympic champion Peruth Chemutai completed the star-studded podium with the bronze.
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A Battle of Titans Ends in History
Before the race even started, experts predicted a fierce head-to-head duel between world leader Peruth Chemutai and the reigning world bronze medalist Faith Cherotich. Chemutai took early control of the race, leading the pack over the heavy wooden barriers and splashing through the water jumps. However, Cherotich, who had recently recovered from an early-season injury, refused to let the Ugandan build a significant gap.
With three laps left to go, Cherotich launched a decisive move and broke away at the front. She controlled the tempo masterfully before unleashing a ferocious finishing sprint over the final 600 meters. Crossing the finish line alone, Cherotich stopped the clock at an astonishing 9:01.76. This remarkable time completely shattered the previous Commonwealth Games record of 9:15.68, which had been set in Birmingham four years prior.
Dramatic Final Lap Sparks Local Celebrations
While Cherotich comfortably secured the gold medal, an unforgettable battle was brewing for the remaining podium steps. As they entered the final lap, Chemutai began to tire from her early leading efforts. Seizing the moment, England’s Elise Thorner relied on the passionate cheers of the home crowd to launch a massive late surge.
Thorner tracked Chemutai down the backstretch and produced a powerful kick right after the final water jump. She sailed past the Ugandan athlete on the homestretch to secure a sensational silver medal. Thorner finished in a brilliant personal best time of 9:05.45, leaving the stadium roaring with excitement. Chemutai crossed the line shortly after in 9:09.96 to proudly take home the bronze medal for Uganda. It was a legendary race that fans in Glasgow will remember for a very long time.