This archive report was first published on 1 October 2019.
Kipruto to Lead Kenya's Charge in 3,000m Steeplechase ¶
Published on October 1, 2019, at 13:36:02.
Defending champion Conseslus Kipruto will lead Kenya's onslaught in the 3,000m men steeplechase semi-final at the World Athletics Championships in Doha, Qatar. Kipruto, who has had a difficult season, will take his place on the track at the Khalifa International Stadium at 18:15 hours.
Despite pulling out of the race final at the All Africa Games in Rabat, Morocco, and the national trials, Kipruto remains optimistic about his chances. He told Citizen Digital, 'Qualifying for the final is the most important thing during this semi, we know very well the first three across the line will automatically qualify but for me winning my heat is important so as to gain the confidence I need in the final.'
Other Kenyans in the race include Benjamin Kigen, Abraham Kibiwot, and Leonard Kipkemoi. In the men's 400m heats, national champion Alphas Kishoiyan will be hoping to forget the unfortunate 4×400 mixed relay outing on day two. Akeem Bloomfied of Jamaica will also be participating in the race.
Emmanuel Kipkurui Korir, a 24-year-old athlete, will be another Kenyan in the race. Korir boasts of the Indoor World Record for 600 meters set in 2017 and is ranked as the sixth-fastest athlete over 800m of all time, with a personal best of 1:42.05.
Day Five Schedule:
- 1635 hours: Men's 400m heats
- 1650 hours: High Jump final
- 1815 hours: Men's 3000m Steeplechase heats
