Chepkoech smashes women’s steeplechase world record

Monaco, July 21: Kenya's Beatrice Chepkoech grabbed the spotlight as she shattered women's 3000m steeplechase world record at the IAAF Diamond League meeting here.

The 27-year-old Chepkoech, who had never tasted a medal at previous major tournaments before, on Friday clocked a stunning 8 minutes 44.32 seconds, bettering previous record set by Ruth Jebet of Bahrain by over eight seconds.

Jebet posted 8:52.78 at the IAAF Diamond League meeting in Paris in 2016.

"I wanted to break the world record. That was the plan from the beginning of the season. I was aware the biggest chance would be at Monaco due to weather, crowds and the whole environment. And this plan worked well," said Chepkoech, who is the first Kenyan woman to hold the 3000m steeplechase world record.

"I felt strong during the race. I was thinking maybe I can break 8:50 but not at all was I dreaming about 8:44. I'm sure this time still could be improved. Maybe my next target could be to run under 8:40," she added at Stade Louis II.

China's high jumper Wang Yu finished runner-up at 2.30m, before failing on his three attempts at 2.33m. IANS