In a spectacular display of athletic prowess, Kenya's Beatrice Chebet shattered the women's 5km world record at the annual Cursa dels Nassos road race held today, Sunday, December 31. Coming off her gold medal win at the inaugural World Athletics Road Running Championships in Riga this October, Chebet dazzled the Barcelona crowd with a blistering time of 13:12. This phenomenal performance demolished the previous world record by an astounding 17 seconds, setting a new pinnacle in women's long-distance running.
The Cursa Dels Nassos Road women's 5km race was characterized by its exceptionally competitive field, with the top four finishers all surpassing the former world record. Ethiopian athlete Ejgayehu Taye Haylu clinched second place with a time of 14:21, followed closely by Kenyan runner Lilian Kasait Rengeruk at 14:25. Joy Cheptoyek, also from Kenya, secured the fourth spot with a commendable time of 14:27.
The race unfolded under near-perfect weather conditions, greatly contributing to the athletes' extraordinary performances. Medina Eisa set a blistering pace as the lead pacer, guiding the field through the first 3km in a rapid 8:40. But it was Chebet who seized control in the crucial stages of the race. Taking the lead after the 3km mark, she demonstrated an unmatched level of endurance and speed, powering through the course with relentless determination.
Chebet's record-breaking run has not only etched her name in the annals of athletic history but has also raised the bar for women's road racing. Her triumph in Barcelona is a testament to her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to her sport. The world eagerly awaits what this remarkable athlete will achieve next in her already illustrious career.