Cheruiyot, Kipyegon send message of intent ahead of World Championships
World 1,500m champion Faith Chepngetich Kipyegon and Diamond League series champion Timothy Cheruiyot won the women and men's 1500m races respectively on the final day of national trials at the Nyayo Stadium yesterday.
Cheruiyot who has been in a sensational form this season ran into aneasy win crossing the finish line in 3:34.91 with Ronald Kwemoi coming home second in 3:36.61 as World Under-20 champion George Manangoi closed the podium in 3:37.00 to also seal a berth to the September 27 to October 6 World Championships in Doha.
The trio will join World champion Elijah Manangoi who opted out of thetrials although he already has a wild card by virtue of defending his title.
Cheruiyot said he is ready to team up with his colleagues to sweep the Podium.
"In 2017 I won silver and I think going to Doha I can improve on that.The team is really strong and it will be competitive there as well," said Cheruiyot.On her part, Chepngetich said she was elated to be back on track after being out on maternity leave.
Chepng'etich who is also the Olympic 1,500m champion, hit the front atthe bell before winning in a time of 4:03.22 as Winny Chebet, the Intercontinental Cup 1,500m champion, clocked 4:03.23 for second place. Selah Jepleting sealed the last place in the team after timing 4:05.20 for third.
" It feels good to defend my title in Doha. We are going to work asteam and if we bring all the three medals it will be even better. I know it won't be easy especially as we will be facing the likes ofDibaba," said Chepngetich.
