Athletes have urged Athletics Kenya to invest in steeplechase facilities across the country as they miss out meeting their target time when they run on a flat course compared to the required 3,000m steeplechase.
In Mumias, during the 5th leg of Athletics Kenya meeting at Mumias Sports Complex, 3,000m steeplechase were forced to run 3,000m flat for lack of barriers and water points.
Speaking after finishing the race, one of the athlete complained that she had gone to Mumias to test her speed but it was disappointing after she competed in 3,000m.
“I came here to know if I have improved on my time since am supposed to run the Diamond Leagues but now I can’t use such time to know my fate. I needed my time to know if I have improved or nor,” said the athlete.
Away from the controversy, former Africa junior silver medalist Betty Chepkemoi won women’s 3,000m (not the indented 3,000m steeplechase).
“I have been an 800m runner but now I have decided to take on 3,000m steeplechase challenge to see my improvement,” said Chepkemoi.
As she prepares for Kericho meeting next week, Chepkemoi won in 9:44.2 ahead of Sabella Cheruiyot (9:44.5) and Lonah Nyambacho in 9:44.4.
After failing top spot in 400m hurdles men, 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia finalist William Mbevi redeemed himself to win the 110m hurdles in the afternoon.
The reigning national champion in all the two hurdles, Mbevi clocked 14:2 ahead Wiseman Were who timed 14:8 to finish second beating Gilbert Koech to third clocking 15:2.