The steeplechase is one of the most challenging and exciting events in athletics. Combining speed, agility, and endurance, athletes must tackle a series of barriers, including hurdles and water jumps, all while maintaining a fast pace. With the 2025 athletics season on the horizon, the sport is set to showcase a new generation of rising stars. These athletes are pushing the boundaries of the steeplechase, and as they prepare for upcoming competitions, including the 2025 World Championships and the Paris 2024 Olympics, they promise to captivate fans worldwide. Here’s a look at some of the top steeplechase athletes to keep an eye on in 2025.
1. Faith Chepngetich (Kenya)
Kenya has long been a powerhouse in steeplechase athletics, and Faith Chepngetich is leading the charge for the country in 2025. The reigning World Champion has cemented her status as one of the top female steeplechase runners globally. Known for her powerful stride and impeccable technique, Chepngetich is a force to be reckoned with in every competition she enters.
Her performances have been nothing short of spectacular, and many are already predicting that she will be a strong contender for gold in the Paris Olympics. Chepngetich’s ability to remain calm under pressure and execute her race strategy flawlessly makes her a standout in the sport, and her journey through the 2025 season is sure to be one to follow closely.
2. Soufiane El Bakkali (Morocco)
Soufiane El Bakkali’s journey to the top of the men’s steeplechase world has been remarkable. The Moroccan athlete made history in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics by claiming the gold medal, making him the first African male steeplechase champion in history. His performance in 2024 and 2025 is expected to be even more impressive as he seeks to defend his Olympic title.
El Bakkali’s strength lies in his ability to navigate obstacles with precision and maintain his speed through the water jump. His technique has been studied by aspiring steeplechase athletes, and he has become a mentor in the sport, offering valuable insights into how to balance speed and form.
As one of the most experienced and accomplished athletes in the field, El Bakkali is expected to be a dominant force in the 2025 World Championships and beyond.
3. Emma Coburn (USA)
Emma Coburn has been a mainstay in the women’s steeplechase for years, and she remains one of the top contenders in 2025. A two-time Olympic medalist, Coburn is known for her resilience and ability to peak during major competitions. She’s a fan favorite due to her impressive consistency, and her training regimen has set the standard for future generations of athletes.
In 2025, Coburn will look to add another global title to her collection. Her ability to pace herself, stay in control, and execute perfect water jumps gives her a competitive edge. As one of the most decorated American steeplechase runners, Coburn is expected to continue challenging for top positions at international events in the upcoming seasons.
4. Lemi Berhanu (Ethiopia)
Lemi Berhanu is one of the most promising athletes in the men’s steeplechase. Representing Ethiopia, he has already made waves on the continental stage and is poised to make an even bigger impact globally. Berhanu has demonstrated a combination of strength and speed that makes him a strong contender for the World Championships and the upcoming Olympics.
His steady rise through the ranks has made him one of the athletes to watch in 2025, with many predicting that he will challenge some of the top names in the sport. Berhanu’s training focuses on building his endurance and perfecting his technique, particularly when it comes to hurdling and the water jump, which are crucial components of the steeplechase.
5. Akeem Bloomfield (Jamaica)
Although Jamaica is better known for its sprinting prowess, Akeem Bloomfield is an athlete who is gradually reshaping expectations in the steeplechase. Bloomfield, who has primarily competed in the 400 meters, recently took on the steeplechase with impressive results. His athleticism and speed, honed through years of training in shorter distances, have translated well into this more technical event.
Bloomfield’s performances in 2025 will be closely watched, as his success in the steeplechase could signal the beginning of a new era for Jamaican athletics. As the country expands its focus to include more middle-distance events, Bloomfield is set to be a trailblazer in the steeplechase.
6. Kenya’s Benjamin Kigen
Kenya’s Benjamin Kigen is another athlete to watch in 2025. Kigen’s performances at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and subsequent competitions have shown his potential to challenge the best in the world. Known for his strong finishes and ability to handle the final stages of the race with ease, Kigen has the perfect blend of speed and endurance needed for steeplechase success.
7. Kuwait's Bashir Ibrahim
One of the known steeplechase athletes is
Bashar Ibrahim Olympics. He also participated in a Mile Short Track competition in Fayetteville, USA on 10 March 2001, achieving 1132 NR in score. He has competed 3000 Metres Steeplechase race in Sacramento, USA on 13 June 2003 with 1115 NR score.
As he continues to build on his experience, Kigen will be a key player in the upcoming international meets. His resilience and determination are key factors that could propel him to the top of the sport in the coming years.
Training for Steeplechase Success
Success in steeplechase requires more than just raw speed. Athletes need to develop endurance, hurdle technique, and water jump skills. Many of the world’s top steeplechase runners, including the names listed above, spend hours honing their form and practicing their technique to tackle the obstacles effectively.
For aspiring steeplechase athletes, focusing on both strength training and technique is essential. The ability to maintain form while fatigued is often what separates the elite from the rest of the field.
Conclusion
As the 2025 athletics season approaches, the world of steeplechase will undoubtedly showcase thrilling performances from a new generation of athletes. From Faith Chepngetich and Soufiane El Bakkali to rising stars like Akeem Bloomfield, the sport promises to deliver exciting races and records. Fans can expect fierce competition, with athletes pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in this unique and demanding event. Keep an eye on these rising stars—they’re ready to make their mark on the world stage in 2025.