Olympic trials: Kiyeng edges Chepkoech to win 3,000m

The 2015 World 3000m steeplechase champion Hyvin Kiyeng edged the world record holder over the distance Beatrice Chepkoech to win the women’s at the Olympic trials.

As it was expected from the onset, the race shaped to a two-horse race as Kiyeng and Chepkoech easily booked their tickets to Tokyo Games.

Kiyeng clocked 9:24.5 to beat Chepkoech who timed 9:25.0 as the duo sealed the two automatic tickets in team Kenya.

Impressive Purity Kirui was third in 9:25.6 in the exciting race.

“My target was to secure qualification for Tokyo Games. I won silver in the last edition and with this ticket I will try and do something special,” said Kiyeng.

Chepkoech, the World record holder said she is happy to get another chance to compete at the Olympics after placing fourth at the Rio Games five years ago.

“It was my first time competing at that level. I feel I am more prepared now to return to the Olympic stage. Being the only medal missing in my cabinet, I am going to work for it and hopefully I will get it,” said Chepkoech.