Beatrice Chebet, the reigning Commonwealth Games champion, showcased her dominance in the women’s 5000m at the Doha Diamond League meeting, marking a spectacular start to her season on Friday evening.
The 24-year-old Kenyan athlete stunned her competitors with a powerful finish, seizing victory in a world-leading time of 14:26.98.
Ejgayehu Taye of Ethiopia, who was leading the race into the final lap, finished second in a season-best 14:29.26. Another Ethiopian, Eisa Medina, completed the podium with a time of 14:34.11, securing third place.
Chebet, also a World Cross Country Championships winner, maintained control from the start, smartly positioning herself just behind the Kenyan pacemaker for the first five laps.
As the pacemaker dropped off, Taye took the lead, setting a vigorous pace that whittled the leading pack down from eight to five with just four laps remaining.
The intensity of the race escalated as Taye accelerated just before the bell, leaving Medina struggling to keep up. Chebet, closely shadowing Taye, made a strategic move in the last 200 meters.
Initially attempting to pass on the inside, she was blocked by Taye, compelling her to switch to the outer lane.
In a thrilling display of speed and endurance, Chebet executed a forceful kick, cheered on by the Kenyan supporters in the stands. Her sprint to the finish line not only clinched the victory but also signaled her readiness for an exceptional season ahead.
This victory in Doha is a significant milestone for Chebet, who made her track debut for the season in this race.
Her remarkable finish underlines her status as one of the premier athletes in women’s long-distance running and sets a high standard for her competitors in future Diamond League events.
As the season progresses, Chebet’s performance in Doha will undoubtedly be seen as a defining moment, showcasing her resilience and tactical brilliance on the track.
