Emmanuel Wanyonyi delivered a thrilling performance on 6th April at the Grand Slam Track Meet in Kingston, Jamaica. The 20-year-old Kenyan Olympic champion stunned the world by winning the 1500m, beating a field packed with Olympic medalists and world champions. He unleashed a powerful kick in the final stretch, clocking a personal best of 3:35.18.
Emmanuel outpaced Yared Nuguse of the United States and Cole Hocker, another Olympic finalist. Even world champion Josh Kerr and Canadian rival Marco Arop could not match his late surge. Wanyonyi’s victory earned him 20 points and a $100,000 prize, making him the top men’s short distance athlete at the Kingston leg.
Emmanuel Wanyonyi ability to read the pace was highly praised by not only analysts but also the fans. Wanyonyi who dominated the 800m and 1500m, showed he is capable of dominating both events and also can transition for long distance races in future.
“I showed I can compete with some of the best,” Wanyonyi said after the race.
Meanwhile, after his Kingston heroics, Wanyonyi has withdrawn from the next Grand Slam Track meet in Miami. However, Emmanuel Wanyonyi`s absence leaves a big gap in the field.
Meanwhile, now, all eyes turn to Timothy Cheruiyot, the experienced Kenyan miler. Cheruiyot will face a tough lineup, including Marco Arop, Yared Nuguse, Peter Bol, Tshepo Tshite, Kethobogile Haingura, Josh Kerr, and Cole Hocker.
Cheruiyot has trained hard for this moment. He knows the Miami track is fast and the competition is fierce. With Emmanuel Wanyonyi out, Cheruiyot carries Kenya’s hopes. He aims to use his experience and speed to challenge for victory.
However, fans and analysts a like wait to see if Cheruiyot will rise to the challenge and keep Kenya on top. Moreover, Emmanuel Wanyonyi reasons for withdrawal are yet to be known.
