Jacob Krop announces return with stunning win at National Trials

ATHLETICS Jacob Krop announces return with stunning win at National Trials

Abigael Wafula 14:00 - 08.07.2023

Krop won the race in 13:15.72 as Commonwealth Games 10,000m silver medallist Simiu settled for second place in 13:16.05.

World 5000m silver medallist Jacob Krop will be making a return to the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, Hungary after successfully destroying a strong field to win the 5000m at the ongoing National Trials at the Nyayo National Stadium.

Krop won the race in 13:15.72 as Commonwealth Games 10,000m silver medallist Simiu settled for second place in 13:16.05. Cornelius Kemboi completed the podium (13:18.74).

The race had attracted a deep field comprised of young athletes trying to make a name for themselves. World Cross-country junior champion Ishmael Kipkurui was among the youngsters who were hoping to make the cut the cut to the global event. Despite finishing out of the podium bracket, he fought hard to secure fourth place.

During the race, Krop was leading the pack from the start until the fourth lap where Simiu took over from him and he was forced to settle for second place, only for a short period. He then took over the mantle one more time with seven laps to go.

With three laps to go, the race was now a battle between Krop and Simiu who were now controlling the race as they kept taking turns leading the strong field. Kemboi was running in third-place comfortably.

With one lap to go, the race became a sprint with Krop fighting hard to maintain his top sport. Simiu followed closely and Kemboi maintained his third place.

The 22-year-old’s hard work paid off well as he was able to cut the tape first ahead of Simiu as Kemboi sealed the podium.