14 May, 2016

1500m Women: Kenyan record for conquering Kipyegon

World silver medallist Faith Kipyegon lived up to expectations in style as she eclipsed her own Kenyan record with a storming piece of middle distance running that left compatriot Hellen Obiri and a trio of young Ethiopians in her wake. The long-striding Kipyegon led from five at the bell and streaked through the final 200m to win in 3:56.82, consigning Genzebe Dibaba’s 2012 meeting record to the dustbin and lowering her own best by 0.16 to move to the top of the world list. Obiri was way back but still clocked 3:59.34 for second as 19-year-old world indoor medallist Dawit Seyaum took third in 3:59.87. Her teammates, Besu Sado and Gudaf Tsegay, ran personal bests in fourth and fifth respectively.

Faith Kipyegon:I did not have a time in my head. I just wanted a good time in the race and to win. God knows who wins.

Helen Obiri: "I gave birth to Tanya one year and one week ago, so to come back and run 3.59 in my first race since 2014 is great. My training has gone well for many months and I hope to go on and run a 3.56 later this season and win a medal at the Olympic Games"