Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Irene Jepkemboi has hailed 2016 Olympic silver medallist and Kenyan javelin icon Julius Yego as the driving force behind her historic performance at in Glasgow, Scotland, on Saturday night.
The 2023 African Under-20 etched her name into the national record books by becoming the first Kenyan woman to win a global medal in, not only javelin throw, but also in field events.
The 22-year-old’s best throw of 57.85m was enough to see her rock the podium on her first time of asking behind Australia’s Mackenzie Little (62.88m) and Tori Moorby (60.04m).
Jepkemboi said this is a moment she will cherish forever.
“Bringing bronze to Kenya is something big and personally, I am so happy for achieving that,” she said.
The US-based thrower admitted she had not expected to step onto the podium.
“From the list of eight finalists, I was not expecting to bring a medal back home, but God is great. He gave me power, and I was able to win a medal,” she said.
Jepkemboi credited Yego’s glittering career for providing the blueprint that guided her rise through the ranks.
“I used to watch Julius Yego. His technique and style inspired many,” she said.
The legendary “YouTube Man” was present at Scotstoun Stadium, offering encouragement and tactical advice throughout the competition.
“Yego being here inspired me a lot. He was telling me to relax and do what I always do,” she said.
Jepkemboi believes her bronze medal in Glasgow is only the beginning of what she can achieve internationally.
“This will change my life and open up opportunities. I also hope it inspires others who share the same dreams,” she added.
The Commonwealth Games bronze adds to an ever-growing trophy cabinet. Her achievements include an African Under-20 silver medal won in Ndola, Zambia, in 2023, where she threw 47.28m to finish behind Tanzania’s Mwanaamina Mkwayu (47.33m).
Jepkemboi is also a three-time Kenyan national champion, taking the title in 2023 (52.91m), 2025 (57.88m), and 2026 (55.24m). Additionally, she finished third at the 2026 NCAA Championships with a personal best throw of 60.16m.
She has challenged more Kenyan women to take up the event.
“Currently, I am the only thrower in Kenya, so I’d like us to have more female throwers who can challenge me,” she said.
Meanwhile, Yego took to social media to congratulate Jepkemboi on her milestone achievement.
“Congratulations, Irene Jepkemboi. Watching you win Kenya’s first-ever Commonwealth Games medal in a women’s field event fills me with immense pride,” Yego shared.
The 2015 world javelin champion believes Jepkemboi’s breakthrough marks a passing of the baton.
“It feels like the handover is complete. I won Kenya’s first Commonwealth javelin gold in 2014 and seeing you step onto the podium with a bronze medal is as emotional as it is inspiring,” he said.
Yego described cheering her on at Scotstoun Stadium as one of the most rewarding moments of his career.
“Being there to encourage you and then witnessing you achieve this milestone made the moment even more special. Your journey from an African U20 silver medallist to a three-time national champion and now a Commonwealth medallist is proof that hard work pays off,” he added.
“I am convinced the future of Kenyan javelin is in safe hands and I believe your achievement will inspire many young athletes to follow in your footsteps.”
He concluded by backing Jepkemboi to carry Kenya’s field legacy even further.
“Keep believing and continue working hard. As your number one fan, I believe your best is still to come.”
