Tokyo Olympics fourth-place finisher Nicholas Kimeli won the World Championships trials in 5000m, out-sprinting training mate Jacob Krop and Cornelius Kemboi in the final straight of the race.

Kimeli prevailed in 13:28.65 during the opening day of the Kasarani trials. Krop who timed 13:29.20 automatically qualified for the two global events.

“I have achieved my target of victory here. I was relaxed and I enjoyed the race. Midway way I decided to push from the huge group. I’m equally happy my friend and training mate Krop has made the team.

“I will be in contention for a gold medal in Oregon,” said Kemeli, arguably the best 5000m runner in the country at the moment.