Nairobi, Kenya – African Deaf javelin record holder Kelvin Kipkogei is on a mission — to turn his dream of becoming a Deaflympic world champion into reality at the 25th Summer Deaflympics in Tokyo, Japan (November 15–26, 2025).
At just 27 years old, Kipkogei is already a continental standout, holding the African Deaf javelin record with a throw of 56.6 meters, achieved at the 2023 Africa Deaf Athletics Championships in Nairobi. A bronze medalist from the 2022 Deaflympics in Brazil, he now has his sights firmly set on gold in Tokyo.
“I never thought I could represent Team Kenya. Now that I have this opportunity, my biggest goal is to get a gold medal in this competition,”
Kipkogei said confidently during training at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi.
Much like his idol Julius Yego — Kenya’s celebrated “YouTube Man” who learned javelin through online videos and went on to win gold at the 2015 World Championships and silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics — Kipkogei’s journey has been defined by resourcefulness and determination.
“He throws 90 meters and inspires my career. I hope to meet him one day and learn from him,” Kipkogei shared. Before access to professional equipment, Kipkogei trained with homemade javelins carved from chopped tree branches, echoing Yego’s humble beginnings. Born and raised in Eldoret, Kipkogei’s passion for athletics was sparked by his father, who also threw the javelin. After trying sprinting and finding it too demanding, he embraced javelin fully — and never looked back.
He qualified for the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics after topping the national trials in September at Ulinzi Sports Complex. His target for Tokyo: a throw of 60 meters or more.
“I feel ready for Japan. I just need to work more on my conditioning,” he added with determination. The Spirit of a Champion
Kipkogei’s story mirrors Kenya’s Deaflympic spirit — one of perseverance, innovation, and excellence. As he continues his preparations, he carries the hopes of a nation eager to see its Deaf athletes shine on the world stage once again.
