Kenyan multiple record holder and Olympic gold medallist Faith Kipyegon began her 2024 season in blistering fashion, clocking 14:46.28 to win the women’s 5000m final at the Kenyan Olympic Trials held at Nyayo Stadium on Friday.
This stellar performance secured Kipyegon a place in event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Kipyegon sat at the back of the pack in the early stages before making a decisive surge to the front after a few laps.
Beatrice Chebet, determined to challenge Kipyegon, stayed competitive until the final 800 meters.
Ultimately, she finished second with a time of 14:58.39, earning her own Olympic slot. Margaret Chelimo secured third place, also clocking 14:58.39.
With the 5000m ticket secured, Kipyegon, who won gold medals in the 1500m at both the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, will return to the field on the final day of the trials.
She aims to secure a spot in the 1500m, positioning herself to compete in two events at the Paris Games, slated for 26 July to 11 August.
Brimming with excitement, Kipyegon expressed her joy at the season opener saying she feels good and she is in good shape especially after coming from an injury.
Kipyegon, who also won gold in the 1500m at the 2017, 2022, and 2023 World Athletics Championships and in the 5000m at the 2023 World Athletics Championships, is likely to face light competition in the 1500m trials.
Her main challengers include Edinah Jebitok, Nelly Chepchirchir, Miriam Jerop, Winny Chebet, Susan Ejore, and Nyahururu-based Mary Ekiru.
As the trials continue, Kenyan athletics fans eagerly await Kipyegon’s performance in the 1500m, confident in her ability to secure another Olympic berth and shine on the world stage in Paris.
