Jacob Ingebrigsten Runs 7:17.55 to Break 3000m World Record

Norwegian Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen shattered the men’s 3000m world record at the Silesia Diamond League on Sunday, setting a new benchmark of 7:17.55 and surpassing the previous record held by Kenyan Daniel Komen since 1997. This historic event in Silesia, Poland, showcased Ingebrigtsen’s unparalleled prowess in middle-distance running.

Ingebrigtsen, renowned for his aggressive front-running style, decisively broke Komen's long-standing record of 7:20.55 set in Rieti by clocking an astounding 7:17.55. His performance not only eclipsed the old record by over three seconds but also stamped his authority in a field brimming with elite athletes.

The race was charged with intense competition, particularly from Ethiopia's Berihu Aregawi, who also excelled by setting a new Ethiopian national record with a personal best time of 7:21.28. Aregawi’s performance underlined the high caliber of the field, pushing Ingebrigtsen to the limits.

The early pace was set by Belgian pacer Pieter Sisk, who led the field through the first lap in a rapid 58.59 seconds and reached the first 1000m in 2:27.06. This blistering start was crucial in setting the stage for a potential world record. As the race unfolded, Ingebrigtsen showed his strategic acumen and physical resilience, particularly after the 2000m mark, which he passed in 4:55.21.

Yomif Kejelcha, another prominent Ethiopian runner, initially kept up with Ingebrigtsen but eventually fell back, securing a third place with a time of 7:28.44. His early efforts to challenge Ingebrigtsen highlighted the intense rivalry and the high stakes of the race.

As the bell rang for the final lap, Ingebrigtsen widened his lead. A significant gap separated him from Aregawi, turning the final stretch into a solitary battle against the clock. The stadium burst into applause, with the crowd standing and cheering, propelling Ingebrigtsen toward the finish line and into the record books.

Ingebrigtsen ran final 1000 metres in 2:22.34,  thanks to his blazing last lap in 55.47.

Jakob Ingebrigtsen: “It feels special, amazing. I was hoping to challenge the world record, but based on my training, I can never predict exactly what kind of time I am am capable of. I would not have imagined I could run 7:17, though. At the beginning the pace felt really fast, but then I started to feel my way into the race. After 4-5 laps you feel the lactic acid, but you need to get going. The conditions were very difficult with the heat, but it is the same for everyone, I have a good team We use ice vests, we make sure I stayed hydrated and I am prepared."

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Men's 3000m Results Silesia Diamond League: