American Cole Hocker grabs gold from Josh Kerr as Jakob Ingebrigsten and Timothy Cheruiyot wilt in epic 1500m final
America's Cole Hocker shocks world with by clinching 1500m Olympic gold as Ingebrigsten, Kerr and Kenya's Timothy Cheruiyot miss out.
In a breathtaking display of speed and strategy, America’s Cole Hocker defied all expectations to win gold in the men’s 1500 meters at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Hocker, who was not widely tipped to be a podium contender in a race stacked with talent, outpaced pre-race favorites Jakub Ingebrigtsen, Josh Kerr, and Kenya’s Timothy Cheruiyot to clinch victory and set a new Olympic record of 3:27.65.
The race, which featured three Americans in the final for the first time in Olympic history, saw Hocker apply relentless pressure on Kerr alongside compatriot Yared Nuguse.
In the final 50 meters, Hocker surged ahead, leaving Kerr and the rest of the field in his wake. Kerr had to settle for silver, finishing in 3:27.79, with Nuguse narrowly taking bronze in 3:27.80.
The race was full of surprises, especially with Cheruiyot, the 2019 world champion, fading dramatically in the last 200 meters to finish a disappointing 11th place. His compatriot, Brian Komen, struggled even more, finishing last with a time of 3:35.59.
Jakub Ingebrigtsen, known for his typical backfoot approach where he waits to make his move in the final stages, adopted a different strategy this time.
He led the charge in the first 800 meters, with Kerr and Cheruiyot close behind, setting a blistering world-record pace after the first lap. As the race progressed, it became clear that the final lap would be a dramatic showdown among the front runners.
With 200 meters to go, Cheruiyot and Komen both started to wilt under the intense pace, falling behind as Kerr and Ingebrigtsen battled for the lead. However, Ingebrigtsen, too, began to fade in the closing stretch, allowing Kerr to take control and seemingly secure the gold.
But it was Hocker who had the final say. Taking advantage of Kerr's inability to maintain his pace, Hocker surged past him in the final meters, crossing the finish line first.
The victory was sweetened by the Olympic record he set, a testament to his superb race execution. Hocker celebrated his monumental achievement by thumping his chest and ringing the bell, signaling his arrival on the world stage.
Hocker’s triumph is a significant moment in Olympic history, showcasing the depth of talent in American middle-distance running and marking him as one to watch in future championships.
posted Tuesday August 6th
by MArk Kinyangui