EUGENE, Ore. (AP) — Beatrice Chebet from Kenya has made history by setting a new world record in the 5,000 meters. She completed the race in an astonishing 13 minutes and 58.06 seconds at the Prefontaine Classic, becoming the first woman ever to finish under 14 minutes.
This achievement broke the previous record of 14:00.21 set by Ethiopian runner Gudaf Tsegay, who had set that milestone just a month earlier at the same event. Chebet’s final sprint over the last 400 meters showed her determination and awareness of her potential.
In the race, Agnes Jebet Ngetich secured second place with a time of 14:01.29, followed closely by Tsegay in third at 14:04.41. Chebet, 25, is no stranger to success; she won gold medals in both the 5,000 and 10,000 meters at the recent Paris Olympics, joining a select group of women who have achieved this dual victory.
Before this record-breaking performance, Chebet had already logged an impressive 14:06.39 in Rome, signaling her capability to push for the world record. “After running in Rome, I realized I had to prepare properly. My goal was to reach a world record,” she said after her victory.
Interestingly, Chebet also holds the world record for the 10,000 meters, achieved at last year’s Prefontaine Classic, where she became the first woman to run it in under 29 minutes, finishing in 28:54.14.
The Prefontaine Classic is the only U.S. stop on the Diamond League track and field series, drawing top talent from around the globe. Chebet’s feat emphasizes the incredible physical and mental strength needed to excel in athletics, inspiring both athletes and fans alike.
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Gudaf Tsegay, Beatrice Chebet, 2024 Paris Olympic Games, Track and field, OR State Wire, Oregon, Sports, Rome, Agnes Jebet Ngetich, Olympic games, Eugene