Asbel Kiprop Kemboi: Kenya’s High Jump Star

Hailing from the iconic “County of Champions”—Elgeyo Marakwet, known for producing Kenya’s finest athletes like Brigid Kosgei, Vivian Cheruiyot, Wilson Kipsang, Ezekiel Kemboi, and Saif Saeed Shaheen—Asbel Kiprop Kemboi is adding his name to this legendary list as a rising star in high jump.

A Humble Beginning

Born in Kabarak village, Keiyo Marakwet, in 1998, Asbel is the second of three boys. His older brother, Festus Langat, is a USA-based 800m runner, proving athletic talent runs in the family. Asbel discovered his passion for sports at Chemurgui Primary School, where he started his education in the year 2000. By Class 6, his love for high jump had blossomed, and he went on to represent his school at national championships in Class 7 and 8, performing impressively.

Journey Through Education and Athletics

After completing primary school, Asbel joined St. Austin Secondary School and later transferred to Emsea Secondary School during Form 3 within Keiyo Marakwet. There, he met Coach Benson Langat, who played a pivotal role in nurturing his high jump talent.

READ ALSO: VANICE KERUBO NYAGISERA: CHAMPION OF THE 2019 AFRICAN GAMES

In 2016, Asbel qualified for the East Africa School Games held at Kip Keino Stadium in Eldoret, Kenya. He won gold for Kenya with a 1.98m jump, which still stands as a record for the school games. He defeated two Ugandans: Wanume Yahaya from Gombe Secondary School (1.90m) and Isaano Francis from Mukono High School (1.90m). These results caught the attention of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruiters.

In 2017, he joined the KDF and completed military training in 2018, after which he was posted to the 12th Engineers Brigade based in Thika town.

His encounter with Coach Ammon Chepsongor was a turning point. Asbel reflects, “Coach Chepsongor did a wonderful job. After seeing how I was jumping, he redefined my stance, steps, and body curve, which were in total disarray. He did help me a lot. I am here due to the foundation he laid down.”

Professional Growth

Asbel’s career highlights include:

• 2022: National Champion with a jump of 2.12m.
• 2023: 8th place at the Africa Games.
• 2024: Silver medalist at the Africa Athletics Championships in Douala, Cameroon, with a 2.15m jump.

Currently, Asbel is under Coach Sammy Tangui, who has helped him achieve a personal best (PB) of 2.18m, set at the 3rd AK Track and Field Weekend Meeting in January 2024. He also represented Kenya at the Africa Athletics Championships in Cameroon.

Challenges and Aspirations

Asbel’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Speaking about Kenya’s field events, he says, “We can perform better with more support from stakeholders. Equipment availability is a major issue. Kenya, as a sporting powerhouse, still lacks modern stadiums with standard amenities.”

Looking ahead to the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, Asbel is focused on qualifying and improving his PB.

Beyond Athletics

When he’s not training or serving as a plant operator in the KDF’s Engineering Brigade, Asbel enjoys farming on his land in Elgeyo Marakwet. He grows wheat, maize, and vegetables, which contribute to his balanced diet. During the off-season, his favorite meal is ugali with nyama choma and vegetables. During training, he opts for lighter meals like rice and beans, complemented by plenty of fruits to maintain his weight.

Final Words

Asbel Kiprop Kemboi’s accolades, including his national championship titles and Africa Athletics Championship silver medal, are a testament to his dedication and talent. He’s an inspiring figure in Kenyan athletics, proving that with the right support and determination, the sky’s the limit.