Faith Kipyegon, the Olympic 1,500m champion, secured her spot in the Paris Games for the 5,000m event with an impressive performance at the Nyayo National Stadium. Clocking a time of 14:46.28, she dominated the race and claimed victory.
Despite not competing in the distance earlier this year, Kipyegon showcased her strength and talent in the 5,000m, leaving newly crowned 10,000m world record holder Beatrice Chebet behind.
Chebet finished second with a time of 14:52.55, also earning automatic qualification for the Paris Olympics.
As the reigning 5,000m world champion, Kipyegon expressed her optimism about regaining her top form ahead of the Paris Olympics. Her victory in the qualifying race reaffirms her status as one of Kenya’s elite athletes and a strong contender for success in the upcoming Games.
“I’m so happy to have won. I feel so great. I thank God because I was not expecting to run this way, but by His grace I have made it. It so sweet to have a good race on home soil,” an elated Kipyegon said after the race.
However, Kipyegon, who is also the 1,500m world champion, remains undecided about competing in both the 5,000m and 1,500m at the Paris Olympics.
“I’m still not sure. I have already got one. Let’s wait for tomorrow (Saturday) and then I will make the final decision,” she stated.
On her part, world cross country champion Chebet admitted her show was not the best she can offer, citing fatigue.
“It was not easy because just two weeks ago I ran in Oregon and breaking that 10,000m world record was quite a task, and so I have not had enough time to recover fully. Concentrating on training and dealing with fatigue is not easy, but I thank God I managed to run well today,” she explained.
It’s wonderful to see the camaraderie and mutual respect between Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet as they prepare for the Paris Olympics.
Chebet, the bronze medalist in the 5,000m at the 2023 World Championships, expressed her excitement about running alongside Kipyegon, whom she considers a great inspiration.
Their partnership in training and competition is sure to boost their confidence and enhance their performance on the track.
Kipyegon also emphasized the positive working relationship she shares with Chebet, highlighting their past successes and their shared goals for the upcoming Games.
Their teamwork and support for each other reflect the spirit of camaraderie and unity within Kenya’s athletics team.
Meanwhile, Margaret Kipkemboi, who finished third in the qualifying race, awaits confirmation from the Athletics Kenya selection panel regarding her participation in the Olympics.
Her performance demonstrates the depth of talent within Kenya’s distance running contingent, and she will undoubtedly be eager to represent her country on the world stage if given the opportunity.
