Masterful tactics by Rudisha to win gold

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 KEN 1:45.84
2 797 Adam Kszczot POL POL 1:46.08
3 234 Amel Tuka BIH BIH 1:46.30
4 701 Ferguson Cheruiyot Rotich KEN KEN 1:46.35
5 490 Pierre-Ambroise Bosse FRA FRA 1:46.63
6 825 Musaeb Abdulrahman Balla QAT QAT 1:47.01
7 730 Nader Belhanbel MAR MAR 1:47.09
8 685 Alfred Kipketer KEN KEN 1:47.66

 


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Author: riadha