This is Olivia MIller’s piece on the incomparable Faith Kipyegon, who just became the first woman (no men have done it) to win 3 Olympic gold medals at 1,500 meters.
Kipyegon Cruises to Victory in 1500m Final, by Olivia Miller
After Kenyan Faith Kipyegon crossed the finish line at 3:51.29, she collapsed to the ground, covering her face with her hands. Her time not only earned her a gold medal but also set a new Olympic record.
She explained what the race meant to her.
“In a championship, it’s a tactical race; anybody’s. To have come here and run today as I ran after a traumatic 5000, it really took a lot in my mind, and I could not sleep until yesterday.”
Kipyegon referred to her disqualification for obstruction and subsequent successful appeal, reinstating her silver medal. She had finished second in the women’s 5,000m just days before.
This is the 30-year-old’s third medal in the 1500m, making her the first athlete to win Olympic gold thrice.
Her future in the 1500m needs to be clarified.
“To have won three gold medals in the Olympics, I think after today, if I decide that I’m going to the other distance, these beautiful ladies here will take it over, and they will make the 1500m a beautiful race because nowadays it’s swift, and I believe in them.”
This is also the first time an Australian woman has medaled in the event. Jessica Hull of Australia overcame Ethiopia’s Welteji in the last 200m to grab silver with 3:52.56.
Hull performed when it mattered most; this is her second fastest time behind her personal best at the Paris Diamond League, where she ran a 3:50.83.
Although she was in Paris, she felt the love of Australians.
“It was incredible out there. There were so many Australians too, which was really special to hear when we were standing on the start line and hear people cheering for me.”
She explained how the support from the crowd influenced her race.
“It’s probably the first time I’ve brought the crowd into my race plan. Usually, early on, I like to try and relax, and I was telling myself to relax and flirt with the crowd because they just carried us around.”
For Hull, this has been a breakout season. The 27-year-old finished 11th in Tokyo.
Hull reflected on her progress.
“It’s been a dream season, if anything. That’s the simplest way to put it. I couldn’t have imagined it would go so well.”
The electrifying performances in this race hint at a thrilling future for the women’s 1500m.
