In the Oslo Diamond League series, Ethiopia’s Hagos Gebrhiwet delivered a remarkable performance by outshining pre-race favorites Jacob Kiplimo and Joshua Cheptegei in the 5000m run.
Gebrhiwet’s unexpected victory stood out as one of the year’s most notable surprises, amidst a backdrop of three meeting records and five world-leading performances, a mere two months ahead of the Paris Olympic Games.
Despite the odds favoring world record-holder and Olympic champion Joshua Cheptegei, along with two-time world cross-country champion Kiplimo and last year’s Bislett Games victor Yomif Kejelcha, Gebrhiwet emerged as the standout performer.
Gebrhiwet’s connection to the Oslo track dates back to his teenage years in 2012, where he achieved his first sub-13-minute run, leaving an indelible mark on the venue’s history. His recent triumph in the Norwegian capital ensured his name would be prominently featured in Olympic discussions.
The race commenced with a swift pace, as the field was guided through the initial 1000m in 2:33.13 and the 2000m mark in 5:07.05, with Adisu Yihune maintaining the tempo up to the 3000m mark at 7:41.05. Throughout this phase, all the key contenders remained within striking distance.
As the race progressed, Yomif Kejelcha assumed control and escalated the pace. Gebrhiwet closely trailed his compatriot, while the Ugandan duo of Kiplimo and Cheptegei stayed in close pursuit.
The 4000m mark was reached in 10:11.86, with the preceding kilometer covered in a swift 2:30, as documented by World Athletics.
