Days prior to the 800m race at the Sainsbury Diamond league meet in Glasgow, David Rudisha had promised to deliver a world leading time. He did just that when he clocked 1:43.34. He now holds the year’s fastest time along with compatriot Asbel Kiprop.
Pacemaker Sammy Tangui had run the first 400m in 49.94. Rudisha followed right behind him and took over after Tangui dropped off. The lead pack chased but Rudisha opened the gap and finished with a blistering 53 second last lap that brought the crowd to its feet.
Silas Kiplagat too good for everyone
Silas Kiplagat completely outclassed the rest of the field in the men’s 1500m. He won in 3:32.84 with a 54-second last lap.He was even able to slow down significantly in the last 50 metres. Kiplagat hasfinished 1st or 2nd in every race he has entered this year
Nixon Chepseba who was among the top miles just two years ago finished seventh and is having extreme difficulty regaining the form he displayed in 2012.
Soi finishes 3rd in the 5000m
Edwin Soi who ran a world-leading 12:59.82 to win in Paris, was well beaten into third place in 13:13.52. The race was won by Hagos Gebrhiwet. Yenew Alamirew completed an Ethiopia 1-2.
Its not surprising because Edwin Soi has never been consistent. He is quite capable of runing brilliantly in one race then falter completely in the next one. Tactical racing is not his strong suite. Nevertheless 3rd place is creditable.
Concern for Milcah Chemos and Hellen Obiri
In the women’s 3000m steeplechase, Milcah Chemos ran her fastest time of the year, 9:21.91 but it was only good enough for third place. Hiwot Ayalew won 9:10.64 with Emma Coburn of the USA second.
Milcah Chemos has been dominating this event for the past few years and will need to significantly improve to regain her top position.
Hellen Obiri who started the year with a bang, continued her downward slide when she finished 8th in the 1500m in 4:05.26 , a good 5 seconds behind the winner, Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands.
The sudden poor form of Obiri and Chemos should worry Kenya fans who are looking forward to the commonwealth games.
Go to Kenya Athletics Page |
