Athletics

Faith Kipyegon triumphs as day one of Kenyan Olympic trials thrills

Faith Kipyegon (C) Team Kenya

By Rama Mohammed | Saturday, June 15, 2024

Day 1 of the Kenyan Olympic Trials saw Kipyegon’s stunning comeback, Cheruiyot’s thrilling win in the 1500m, and an unexpected upset for Moraa in the 800m.

The first day of the Kenyan Olympic Trials at Nyayo National Stadium was packed with thrilling performances, unexpected results, and intense competition. This crucial two-day event, organised by Athletics Kenya, saw finals in the men’s 1500m and women’s 800m, 5000m, and steeplechase.

The men’s 1500-metre race was the highlight of the day, providing a nail-biting finish. Reynold Cheruiyot emerged victorious in a dramatic showdown, crossing the line in 3:35.63. Reigning Olympic silver medalist Timothy Cheruiyot and Daniel Munguti fiercely contested the race, pushing hard in the final stretch. Ultimately, it was Reynold Cheruiyot’s final burst that secured his win. Munguti finished a close second in 3:35.80, followed by Timothy Cheruiyot at 3:35.90.

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20 year old Reynold Cheruiyot wins a very very competitive 1500m race. Daniel Mungiti second. Former World champion Timothy Cheruiyot who had led for most of the race finishes 3rd. Crowd enjoyed that. #TeamKenya #ParisOlympics pic.twitter.com/UxvQNVjJG6
— Warothe Kiru (@warothe) June 14, 2024

In the women’s 5000m, Faith Kipyegon made a triumphant return to competition. Despite not having raced in 2024 before this event, Kipyegon displayed her dominance by defeating world 10,000-metre record holder Beatrice Chebet. Kipyegon’s winning time of 14:46.28 was over six seconds faster than Chebet's, who finished in 14:52.55. Margaret Chelimo took third place with a time of 14:59.39. Kipyegon’s performance was a testament to her fitness and readiness as she looks forward to the Paris Olympics.

A surprising twist came in the women’s 800m, where Lilian Odira stunned the field by defeating reigning world champion Mary Moraa. Odira’s personal best time of 1:59.27 secured her victory and an Olympic berth. In the final stretch, Odira overtook Mary Moraa, who had led for most of the race, and finished second in 1:59.35. Her younger sister, Sarah Moraa, also put in a strong performance, finishing third with a time of 1:59.39. Odira’s unexpected win underscored the competitive nature of the trials.

The women’s steeplechase saw Faith Cherotich claim victory, clocking 9:22.38. She edged out Beatrice Chepkoech, who finished in 9:22.76. Jackline Chepkoech took third place, completing the race in 9:34.86. Cherotich’s win further solidified her status as a top contender for the upcoming Olympics.

In the men’s 800-metre semifinals, there was significant drama. Emmanuel Wanyonyi, the silver medallist from the World Championships, fell during his heat but managed to advance to the final despite finishing sixth. However, Emmanuel Korir, the reigning Olympic champion, lost his race after finishing sixth in his heat. Wanyonyi’s advancement keeps his Olympic hopes alive, but he will need to perform better in the final to secure his spot.

The first day of the Kenyan Olympic Trials set the stage for an exciting conclusion, with athletes striving to secure their places for the Paris Olympics. The competition remains fierce and full of anticipation, with the top two finishers in each event guaranteed a spot and discretionary selections still pending. The final day promises more excitement as Kenya’s top athletes vie for their chance to represent their country on the world stage.