Bernard Lagat Targeting Rupp’s 5,000m Record

He will go for it in the Armory.

One of the best American distance runners, Bernard Lagat, has big expectations for the upcoming Millrose Games in February. The annual event, which was once held in Madison Square Garden, is now moving to the Armory New Balance Track and Field Center.

The Kenyan-born Lagat says that his goal at the event is the 5,000m–specifically to take out Galen Rupp’s American record of 13:11.44.

“The 5,000 meters at the Millrose Games at the Armory is a race I’m really excited about,” Lagat admitted. “Galen [Rupp] broke my U.S. record so of course I have to try and get it back. I had a really good run at The Armory when I broke the U.S. two-mile record so I’m looking forward to coming back for another good run.”

Rupp broke Lagat’s record in Birmingham, England last year by a mere 6/100th  of a second.

Ray Flynn, the meet’s director, says the 5,000m will be one of the meet’s highlights. “It is very exciting to have Bernard continue his legacy at the Millrose Games,” said Flynn.

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