This archive report was first published on 10 July 2021.
On July 9, 2021, Faith Kipyegon made history by setting a new 1500m national record of 3:51.07 seconds at the Monaco leg of the World Athletics Diamond League.
Competing against the 10,000m world record holder Sifan Hassan, Kipyegon demonstrated her exceptional skills and determination, ultimately emerging victorious and securing the top spot on the podium.
With this impressive performance, Kipyegon not only broke her own previous record of 3:56.82 seconds set in Shanghai in May but also solidified her position as a top contender for the Tokyo Olympics.
Reflecting on her achievement, Kipyegon expressed her gratitude, stating, 'I knew Sifan was going for a fast race and my goal was to run a fast race here and I thank God that was.'
Looking forward to the Tokyo Olympics, Kipyegon expressed her confidence, saying, 'I am really looking forward to Tokyo and I know it will be a very hard competition but I hope to go there and defend my title.'
Meanwhile, Timothy Cheruiyot also made a strong statement in the men's 1500m event, winning in a new personal best time of 3:28.28 seconds. This impressive performance has put pressure on the Olympic selectors to reconsider their decision and include Cheruiyot in the team.
However, the steeplechase event was marred by a mistake from the bell ringer, which spoiled what would have been a one-two finish for Benjamin Kigen and Abdraham Kibiwott. Despite this setback, Kigen and Kibiwott showed remarkable resilience and determination, with Kigen finishing seventh in 8:15.09 seconds and Kibiwott finishing second in 8:07.81 seconds.
Hyvin Kiyeng also made a strong statement in the women's steeplechase, beating Beatrice Chepkoech and winning in 9:03.82 seconds. Chepkoech, the world record holder, finished second in 9:04.94 seconds.
