Simon Koech Kiprop of Kenya took control of the men’s 3000m steeplechase race midway through and clinched the title with ease, crossing the finish line in a time of 8:06.26 in the Diamond League Prefontaine Classic held at Hayward Field,

Koech’s triumphant victory marked the culmination of his season, highlighting his remarkable journey as the 2021 world U20 bronze medalist who had recently finished seventh at the World Championships. Remarkably, he was not ranked among the Top 10 in Diamond League scoring for the season.

Simon Koech start

The race started with Craig Novak setting the pace, clocking 2:40.91 for the first kilometer, slightly off the intended pace.

Novak maintained the lead until the second kilometer, which he covered in 5:25.23, five seconds slower than the desired pace, before stepping off the track.

With record attempts fading, the focus shifted to the competition, with Koech striving to maintain his advantage over Ethiopian contenders Samuel Firewu and Getnet Wale.

As the race unfolded, Koech steadily increased his lead over the field. By the time he reached the bell lap, the outcome was all but certain.

Simon Koech nears personal best

Koech navigated the final lap smoothly, comfortably securing the win, just two seconds outside his season and personal bests.

Samuel Firewu claimed second place, completing the race in 8:10.74. New Zealand’s Geordie Beamish executed a remarkable kick over the last kilometer, surging from 10th place to finish third in 8:14.01. Getnet Wale finished fourth with a time of 8:14.96.