Ethiopia’s Lemlem shocks Kenyans at Kip Keino Classic

Ethiopia’s Halu Lemlem pulled a surprise win over Kenyan athletes in 1,500m at the Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour meet Saturday.

Lemlem beat the Kenyans in their own turf to win the race in 4:06.42 as Africa 1500m champion Winny Chebet finished second in 4:06.78.

There was little to separate Chebet and the 2014 Commonwealth Games 5000m champion Mercy Cherono who placed third in 4:06.79.

Chebet who trains alongside world 1500m champion Timothy Cheruiyot said she was impressed by her performance despite losing to the Ethiopian in the latter stages of the race.

“It was a tough race especially since we had been outside for long due to challenges brought about by coronavirus. I tried my best and I am very pleased with my performance today,” said Chebet.

On her part, Cherono who was making her long-awaited comeback after series of injuries was equally positive of her performance at the meet.

“Although it was bit windy in the stadium, I am impressed and I was using this race in the build up to next year’s Olympics remember we have not had many races this season, so it was a very good build up,” said Cherono