Kenyan athletes arrive in America

A large contingent of Kenyan athletes led by World champions Hyvin Kiyeng (Women 3000m SC), Asbel Kiprop (1500m) and Nichoals Bett (400m hurdles) arrived in Eugene, Oregon for the Prefontain Classic Diamond League.

IAAF Diamond League 2015 women 3000m SC winner Virginia Nyambura is also part of the 26-member contingent ready to take the Nike-sponsored event by storm.

They are joined by USA-based Betsy Saina, who will be in the mix in 5000m against the Ethiopian squad fronted by Gelete Burka.

Speaking ahead of the 5,000m and 10,000m tomorrow, Vivian Cheruiyot said she was looking forward to a good outing after finishing fourth in Doha in the 3000m won by Almaz Ayana of Ethiopia.

“It is part of my continuous evaluation to see how my body responds to training,” Cheruiyot said.

The diminutive fans' favourite said she is adjusting well since returning from maternity leave, adding that Kenyan fans really encourage her when taking on Ethiopians.

“I am aware Kenyans expect me to push the Ethiopians and I think I enjoy every bit of it. I owe it to my fans. However, whenever I run, I really don’t focus on who is who on the track. I also take pride in running as a Kenyan and quite often, I do it to reward the fans. Above all though, I do is listen to my body. When I feel in good shape, I really enjoy the challenge,” Cheruiyot said.

Another Kenyan expected in the crowded 5,000m pool is Saina, who said she has upped her game and training.

“I tried to change how I train. I have also reduced the number of the races I compete in, unlike the lead up to the 2012 Olympics. This being an Olympic year, I need to work hard and be in the team. I know the trials will be competitive. So I have to keep myself in good shape,” Saina said.

"I train in Portland and I have many fans here. I am a Kenyan, but I have won several fans here, so I will have most of them behind me come Friday. I will work hard to keep in touch with my compatriots."

Burka will be the one to watch, but Hellen Obiri believes the pool has some of the toughest challengers, beginning with Vivian.

“She has the experience and above all, there are other equally good athletes,” Obiri said.

“I will compete in the 5,000m race up from the 1,500m. It is a bit tight getting to the 1,500m medal brackets. I am yet to make up my mind whether to go for 5,000m or 1,500,” Obiri said.

Another US-based Kenyan athlete gearing up for men’s 5,000m is Kaptagat-born Stephen Sambu, who says he is progressing well with his training ahead of the Olympic trials.

“I train at the Flagstaff Athletics Club in Arizona. It is not very different from the conditions in Iten, perhaps even tougher,” Sambu said.

“I will have my US fans urging me on. I will strive to give them something to smile about,” said Sambu.