David Rudisha put his vast experience on display when he out-hought and outfoxed the field to win the mens 800m at the 2015 world athletics championships. Just as he had done in the semi-finals, Rudisha took the lead from the start but slowed the pace to a pedestrian like 54.15 first lap. Rudisha does this knowing that in his current state, a slow pace favours him. When Rudisha was in his prime, he would set a torrid pace towing the field with him. He has now re-invented himself with much success.
Rudisha held off all attempts to pass him. With 250m left to go, Rudisha’s long strides started to be evident as he started to stretch his lead. Meanwhile Bosnian challenger Amel Tuka who was in last position at this point started to make his move. But Rudisha whose finishing kick has been lacking since 2012 showed his improved speed blowing the rest of the field away in the last 100m.
It is Rudisha’s first major win since he won Olympic gold in 2012. Ferguson Rotich who beat Rudisha at the Kenyan trials was 4th, barely missing out on a medal.
Race Video
Race Results
POS | BIB | ATHLETE | COUNTRY | MARK | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 702 | David Lekuta Rudisha | KEN | 1:45.84 | |
2 | 797 | Adam Kszczot | POL | 1:46.08 | |
3 | 234 | Amel Tuka | BIH | 1:46.30 | |
4 | 701 | Ferguson Cheruiyot Rotich | KEN | 1:46.35 | |
5 | 490 | Pierre-Ambroise Bosse | FRA | 1:46.63 | |
6 | 825 | Musaeb Abdulrahman Balla | QAT | 1:47.01 | |
7 | 730 | Nader Belhanbel | MAR | 1:47.09 | |
8 | 685 | Alfred Kipketer | KEN | 1:47.66 |
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