Kibet, Kipruto shine at Olympic pre-trials

Michael Kibet clocked 13:34.8 to win the first semi final in the men’s 5000m at the Olympic pre-trials that kicked off today at the Nyayo Stadium.

Kibet who finished third at the Gateshead Diamond League on Sunday was followed by Moses Njoroge who clocked 13:36.1 while Mark Lomuket was third in 13:44.7.

The 21 year old reaffirmed his desire to represent Kenya at the Tokyo Games when the main trials will be held next month.

“I did not expect to win the race since I just arrived from the UK. I was just gauging my body and I am glad it responded well. I am now waiting for my coach to give me the program for the coming weeks before the Olympic trials. My main target this year is to make the team for the Games,” said Kibet.

Emmanuel Kiprop won the other semi final clash in 13:37.0

In the men’s 800m, Collins Kipruto ran the fastest heat when he clocked 1:47.06 ahead of Elias Ngeny (1:48.91) and Robert Korir (1:49.81).

Kipruto said he is eyeing his maiden appearance in Kenyan colours at the Summer Games slated for July 23-August 8.

“It was just part of my training as I am now preparing for the World Continental Tour meetings before the national trials. My dream is to make the cut in team Kenya for the Olympics,” said Kipruto.

Priscilah Tabunda reigned supreme in the women’s 100m hurdles after crossing the finish line in 14.88 ahead of Brigid Jelagat who placed second in 15.35 as Veronica Chebet closed the podium in 15.84

National triple jump record holder Gloria Mulei leaped 5.89m enroute to winning the women’s long jump as Isaac Kirwa emerged the winner in the men’s event after jumping 7.52m both falling short of the Olympic qualifying standard of 8.22m (men) and 6.82m (women).

Athletics Kenya (AK) executive member Barnaba Korir disclosed that alongside being an Olympic pre-trials, the federation will also use the event as trials for Africa Senior Championships that were rescheduled to Lagos, Nigeria.

“Since a new venue for the Africa Championships has been announced then it is most likely we will also use this event to select our team,” said Korir who doubles as the chair of AK Nairobi region.