World champ Cheruiyot floors Defar to grab second gold

World 5,000 metres champion Vivian Cheruiyot secured Kenya its second gold medal edging out a strong challenge from Ethiopians on the second day of the 17th Safaricom Senior Africa Athletics Championship at the Nyayo National Stadium.

Cheruiyot, the main centre of focus alongside Ethiopian star Meseret Defar, showed a true warrior’s spirit, taking the battle to the Ethiopians in what started out as a very low-paced but calculated race.

“I knew the Ethiopians have been beating us on the final sprint. I took it upon myself to train on my kick and I was certain I had the strength to do so. So when I approached the bell, I was certain I could beat anyone,” said Cheruiyot.

The Kenyan, running before over 26,000 home fans, waited until the final lap before she could pounce and test the resilience of the Ethiopians.

As she approached the bell, she took over the lead with Defer following while the second Ethiopian, Sentayehu Ejigu, followed.

With 300 metres to go, Cheruiyot went full throttle and for another 200m Defer matched her pace. But as they approached the home stretch, Cheruiyot opened the gap with every stride and Defer was left watching her back.

Cheruiyot had the time and space to briefly wave to the crowd as she went for the finish line and produced her trademark punch in the air as she won in 16 minutes 20.72 seconds.

“I really feel proud to have won here at home. It is not everyday that we run in Kenya and now the fans have had the opportunity to see us win,” she said.

Defar, even in defeat was able to smile and congratulate the champion as she followed to take Ethiopia’s first silver in 16:20.54.

“It was a good race and I felt some pain while in the race and that is why I could not give it the best sprint. But I lost to a better runner and I realise that Vivian will always be a threat in the 5,000m race,” said Defar.

Ejigu denied Kenya’s Ines Chononges the bronze medal by finishing third.