Kenya's 3,000m steeplechase legend Ezekiel Kemboi has announced his retirement after winning a bronze at the men's finals of the Rio games on Wednesday.
"The Rio steeplechase was my last race from track after 18 years long career. I want to thank my family, my fans and the government of Kenya for all the support," the 34-year-old said.
Conseslus Kipruto Kenya's fourth gold, however, opens a new chapter in the country's 3,000 steeplechase history after years of dominance by two-time Olympic champion Ezekiel Kemboi.
Conseslus won the race in a record time of 8:03.28, with Kemboi settling for bronze in 8:08.47.
American Evan Jager took silver in 8:04.28.
Conseslus came to Rio as the best in the world this year, while Kemboi arrived as the best championship performer of this generation.
Conseslus has won every race on the IAAF Diamond League circuit this year without looking at maximum effort.
His 8:00.12 win in Birmingham ranks him No.1 in the world.
Kemboi on the other hand, won Olympic gold in 2004 and 2012, and last year, he picked up his fourth world title.
Kenyans also congratulated Kemboi for his determination and efforts.
While some expressed their disappointment that the legend had retired, others said it was a good start for another caliber generation.
President Uhuru Kenyatta expressed his satisfaction in Kemboi who is attached to his security team.
"Always a joy to cheer Kemboi who is part of my Presidential Security team. He has been patriotic to the finish line," Uhuru said in a tweet.
Mike Robottom said: "Ezekiel - we will miss your crazy dancing, and equally we will miss your crazy finishing. Why did you love lanes seven and eight so much?"
Inoro said Kemboi was the most decorated steeplechase athlete of all time.
"Ezekiel Kemboi can retire with pride, he has won 22 medals for Kenya, 10 of them gold," Isaiah Lagat said.