Tokyo Olympics: Barega stuns Cheptegei in 10,000m, Kenya misses podium

Kenya’s will have to wait longer for a gold medal in the men’s 10,000m at the Olympics as Kenyans once again missed on the podium at the Tokyo Games.

World 5000m silver medallist Selemon Barega of Ethiopia was the unlikely hero as he shocked world record holder over the distance Joshua Cheptegei to win the heated final held Friday evening at the Olympic Stadium.

Barega secured his maiden Olympic gold as he stormed to victory in 27:43.22 to continue Ethiopia’s dominance in the race.

Cheptegei, the pre-race favourite would settle for second in 27:43.63 after edging his compatriot Jacob Kiplimo, the man with a world leading time who eventually took bronze in 27:43.88

Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Rodgers Kwemoi was the first Kenyan in the race after placing seventh in 27:50.06

World bronze medallist Rhonex Kipruto who was a late inclusion in Kenya’s field due to the withdrawal of Geoffrey Kamworor ranked ninth in 27:52.78.

Youngster Weldon Langat who was making his maiden appearance in Kenyan colours after placing third at the national trials struggled to keep up with the pace as he timed 28:41.42 to place 20th.

Kenya last won a gold medal in the men’s 25-lap race in 1968.