Lalang leads Kenyans in sweeping 800m medals

By Mutwiri Mutuota in India

A family was at the core of the second Kenyan podium sweep of the 19th Commonwealth Games at the packed Jawaharlal Nehru Complex in Delhi. Cousins Boaz Lalang and Abraham Kiplagat sandwiched Richard Kiplagat in the men’s 800m final.

It marked another milestone for Team Kenya at these games as the trio became the first and only set from one nation to seal a 1-2-3 finish over two-laps following the execution of what all medallist said in unison: “Everything worked perfectly as we had planned.” Last evening, the crowded main stadium of the imposing complex were treated to a memorable spectacle when Lalang, the World Indoor silver medallist and 2008 Olympics finalist, the pre-race favourite and both Kiplagats lined up in lanes five, four (Richard) and seven (Abraham).

At the gun, Lalang edged to the lead with Richard and Abraham forming a shield as Uganda’s hopeful Jimmy Adar (fifth, 1:49.57) tried to stay in the hunt but like all comers, was eventually reduced to a finisher by the might of the Kenyan steamroller.

The World Indoor silver medallist brought the runners through the bell in 51.98 before leading his teammates to surge further and further from the rest.

His cousin, who had been tripped at the curve, ate up the ground and secured the last medal position as Lalang sealed victory in 1:46.60, with Richard coming in for the ‘bridesmaid’ honours in 1:47.37.

 Bronze was won with the timer reading 1:49.37, as the Kenyans, who also filled the podium at their own African Championships once again stamped their authority in 800m running.

“It was a perfect plan, and I’m so happy that it worked. We had decided since I was good in front running, I would go to the front with Richard and Abraham following me so that we could lock out the other guys. The weather was not a bad factor, since we are used to this kind of conditions in Europe and what was important was to deliver all the medals.

“After missing the Olympics final in Beijing, and having a bad season last year since I was taking full time lessons, to come here and get gold makes me so happy. Now, I’m training with Bernard Lagat (Kenyan born American 2007 double World champion) and he has really helped me. I dedicate this medal to my family,” the successor to compatriot, Abraham Chirchir at the Club Games said.

“We are very happy since our plan worked. We set out to give these championships something and it happened. Our aim was simple; to control the race from the start by pushing the pace.

“Winning silver on my first outing for Kenya is a turning point in my career,” Richard expressed.