Kasait outsprints Obiri to win 5,000m in the Olympic trials

African Games 5000m champion Lilian Kasait edged two-time world champion Hellen Obiri to win the women’s 5000m as Kenyan Olympic trials kicked off on Thursday.

Kasait, the 2017 world cross country bronze medalist clocked 14:52.18 with Obiri coming home second in 14:52.51 as Agnes Tirop closed the podium in 14:52.51

“I didn’t expect to win since it was a very strong field. I am happy to qualify for the Olympics for the first time. I know we have a very huge task ahead at the Tokyo Games,” said Kasait.

On her part, Obiri said she is keen to exit the global stage on a high at the Tokyo Games.

“You know the age is also catching up and I think this will be my last Olympics, I will try to win a gold medal in Tokyo before I shift to road running,” Obiri said.

The Olympic silver medallist said she is yet to decide if she will do double events at the Summer Games.

“I am still undecided but I will consult my coach and then decide if can do both 5k and 10k,” she added.