Agnes Ng’etich Backs Michael Johnson Over Grand Slam Track’s Decision to Scrap ‘Tough’ 5000m Event in Philadelphia

Agnes Ng'etich walked away with USD 50,000 (Ksh. 6.46 million) after winning the 3000 meters at the Philadelphia Grand Slam Track last Saturday.

Agnes Jebet Ng’etich has thrown her support behind Grand Slam Track founder Michael Johnson’s decision to remove the grueling 5000m event—and subsequently reduce the prize money by half—from the recently concluded third leg in Philadelphia.

The 24-year-old Kenyan star responded with yet another commanding performance, claiming maximum points in the lone 3000m race in the women’s long-distance category.

 She powered past Ethiopia’s Ejgayehu Taye in a thrilling sprint finish, solidifying her dominance at the Philadelphia meet.

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Having now clinched back-to-back victories—first in Miami, then Philadelphia—Ng’etich is staking her claim among Kenya’s elite, joining the ranks of 1500m world record holder Faith Kipyegon and 10,000m ace Beatrice Chebet.

Fresh off her triumph in Philadelphia, the 10km world record holder reaffirmed she is in peak form this season. 

Just days after breaking the women-only 10km world record in Herzogenaurach, Germany on April 26, Ng’etich secured her first Grand Slam Track title in Miami. With two titles under her belt, she has already amassed a total of $150,000 in prize money.

Speaking to the media after her second win, Ng’etich expressed full agreement with the controversial decision to drop the 5000m, pointing to the physical toll of competing in two distance events on back-to-back days.

“I think today was tough because the 5000m was cancelled, so everyone came into the 3000m gunning for the win,” Ng’etich explained. 

“But honestly, I think it was the right call. The 5000m was challenging—it really pushed us, having to race twice in two days. That’s not easy in long-distance running. So yes, we missed it, but the change made sense.”

Michael Johnson: The 5000 Meters ‘Lacked Intesity’

Her sentiments echoed those of Michael Johnson, who acknowledged that the 5000m races at the opening two legs had lacked the energy and excitement Grand Slam Track is aiming for.

“Out of all the events across the first two Slams, the 5000m just didn’t deliver the same punch,” said Johnson. 

“It became clear that the two-race format wasn’t as effective for the longer distances, so we made the call to stick with just the 3000m. Judging by what we saw in Philly, those races were electric—some of the best of the weekend. We definitely feel like we got it right.”

Johnson pointed out the clear drop in crowd engagement during the 5000m races. “When you watch most of our events, the energy at the finish line gets fans on their feet. But that just wasn’t happening consistently with the 5000m,” he said.

He also shed light on the planning process behind the scenes. “There’s always a lot for us to consider. We have got an endless stream of ideas floating around—some we act on, others we shelve.

“The idea to go with just the 3000m was always there. We also debated whether this should be a two-day or three-day event. In the end, we figured, ‘Why wait until next season?’ It felt right to go with two days, and many fans had already suggested that format.”

As Johnson emphasized, Grand Slam Track will continue to experiment, adapt, and respond swiftly to feedback. 

“We’re not afraid to try new things and make changes on the fly. That’s how we stay ahead. We listen—and we move.”