Vivian Cheruyiot explains why Faith Kipyegon is hard to beat in the 5000m despite running few races

Vivian Cheruyiot explains why Faith Kipyegon is hard to beat in the 5000m despite running few races

Mark Kinyanjui 08:38 - 13.07.2024

Despite being a 1500m specialist, Kipyegon is the reigning world champion and record holder in the 5000m despite running just six career races in that event, and the iconic Cheruiyot has explained why.

Vivian Cheruiyot, the 2016 Olympic 5000m champion and one of the greatest women’s 5000m runners of all time, has shared her thoughts on why Faith Kipyegon is set to dominate the 5000m event at the upcoming Paris Olympics in August.

Cheruiyot, who retired from track running to focus on road running, recently achieved a podium finish at the Paris Marathon on her return to running earlier this year.

Faith Kipyegon has established herself as a legendary 1500m runner, having set three World Records, won two Olympic gold medals, and secured three world titles in the event. 

Last year, she set the world record in the 5000m and won the gold medal despite not competing in the event for eight years before deciding to give it a try.

In a documentary produced by Nation TV’s Sport On, Cheruiyot, the 2012 Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year, explained why Kipyegon's transition to the 5000m was seamless. 

“The programme for (training in) 1500 and 5000m doesn’t have much magic. She already has the speed for the 1500m and in the 5000, you do not need a lot of speed,” Cheruiyot said.

 “She knows how to manage, and so does her coach, so I am very confident that she will do well in Paris. She is capable of going to double and capable of delivering two gold medals in Paris.”

Kipyegon recently broke her own 1500m World Record at the Paris Diamond League classic, running 3:50.04 despite it being only her second race of the season after battling injuries.

 This performance underscored her excellence and ability to deliver under pressure, earning her more praise from Cheruiyot, whom she considers a role model.

“I can describe Faith as a superhuman and a disciplined girl. She is focused and is someone who is doing her work right. She is someone who is in love with sport,” Cheruiyot said.

 Kipyegon reciprocated the admiration, saying, “When I was young, I used to see Vivian running and I was like, one day one time, I would like to be like her.

Follow the Pulse Sports X account for more updates.

Tags: