Kenyan Distance Trials To Be Held In U.S.

They will take place at the Prefontaine Classic.

According to a report from the Daily Nation Web site, one of the world’s best distance-running nations, Kenya, will be holding its 5,000m and 10,000m Olympic Trials in the United States.

The announcement was made by Athletics Kenya, the nation’s Olympic governing body. It stated that the Trials will be taking place in conjunction with the annual Prefontaine Classic meet on June 1 in Oregon.

Chairman Isaiah Kiplagat defended the decision, saying that a rigorous elimination program will be in place before the Trials. Apparently, it starts when a hand-picked group of prospects sets up camp in Eldoret next month.

This may come as a bit of a surprise, but Kenya is more than hungry for Olympic medals in these distances. It has only won a single gold medal in the 10,000m, and that happened back in 1968 when Naftali Temu defeated Ethiopian favorite Mamo Wolde with 50 meters to go to the finish.

Kenya has never won an Olympic gold medal in the women’s 5000m and 10,000m events.

For More: Daily Nation