Kipruto retains World 3,000m steeplechase title in photo finish

Kenya’s Conseslus Kipruto had to dig deeper to defend his 3,000m steeplechase World title at the ongoing World Championships in Doha, Qatar Friday night.

Kipruto who was making his first competitive appearance after a protracted injury layoff managed shrugged opposition from Ethiopia’s Lamecha Girma in a tight photo finish.

The Olympic champion would go on to win the race in 8:01.35 as Girma settled for silver in 8:01.36

Reigning Diamond League series winner Sofiane El Bakkali of Morocco clinched bronze in 8:03.76

Other Kenyans in the race Benjamin Kigen ranked sixth, Abraham Kibiwott came home seventh as Leonard Bett placed ninth.