Commonwealth Games 3000m steeplechase Abraham Kibiwott showed why he is Kenya’s best in the water-and-hurdles race when he stormed to first place at the fifth edition of Absa Kip Keino Classic at the Nyayo National Stadium.
Kibiwott clocked a world lead of 8:20.54 to usurp countryman, Amos Serem as the world’s fastest man in the eight-lap race. Serem, the Commonwealth Games 3000m steeplechase bronze medalist, clocked 8:21.40 to place second as Matthew Kosgei finished third with a personal best of 8:23.84.
Speaking after the win, Kibiwott expressed his excitement and paid tribute to those who have supported him in his preparations.
“I'm glad I retained the Kipkeino Classic title for the third time. I want to thank my coach, wife and management,” Kibiwott said.
Absa Kip Keino Classic done and dusted, the world 3000m steeplechase bronze medalist is singularly focused on restoring Kenya’s lost glory in the Olympics.
“I will step up my training and preparation ahead of the Paris Olympics where I want to reclaim our lost glory,” Kibiwott said.
Kenya lost its stranglehold on the Olympics title at the last edition of the quadrennial competition in Tokyo at the hands of Moroccan Soufiane El Bakkali.
Echoing his countryman’s comments, Serem said the result on the afternoon gives hope for Kenya as they seek redemption in Paris, come July.
“It was a good race. I had prepared well for it and I am happy for the performance. It is also encouraging that we took the 1-2-3 places and confirmed that 3000m steeplechase is a Kenyan event,” the 2021 World Under 20 3000m steeplechase champion said
