Wanyonyi stuns bigwigs at Grand Slam Track in Jamaica
Kenyan athlete Emmanuel Wanyonyi delivered a stunning performance at the Grand Slam Track meet in Kingston, Jamaica, securing a major victory in the 1500m race. The 800m world silver medalist triumphed over formidable competitors, including Olympic bronze medalist Yared Nuguse of the United States and reigning 800m world champion Marco Arop.
Wanyonyi's tactical prowess was evident as he strategically positioned himself in the middle of the pack, carefully monitoring his rivals' moves before unleashing a powerful kick in the homestretch. He crossed the finish line in 3:35.18, leaving Nuguse and Olympic 1500m silver medalist Josh Kerr of Great Britain struggling to keep pace.
Nuguse finished second with a time of 3:35.36, followed by Olympic champion Cole Hocker in 3:35.52. Kerr, the reigning world 1500m champion, finished fifth in 3:35.61.
Wanyonyi's victory earned him 12 points in the competition. A win in the 800m event would secure him the top prize of Sh12.9 million in the short distance category. In the women's division, Ethiopia's Diribe Weltiji emerged as the overall winner, claiming the top prize money after a stellar performance in the 1500m. Nikki Hiltz of the USA secured second place overall, while Susan Ejore of Kenya finished third.
The absence of world 800m champion Mary Moraa was notable, as she withdrew from the Kingston leg due to a recurring medical condition. Moraa expressed her disappointment but vowed to return for the Miami Slam in May.
Organizers have announced that the overall season winner will be the athlete with the highest accumulated points across the four meets. A male and female champion will be crowned 'Racer of the Year' in each 'Race Group'.