Like yesterday’s 3000m, the 5000 was primarily a tactical race, and as in the shorter distance, it was a Bekele who crossed the line first. This time it was the event’s World record holder, Kenenisa, whose dominance was displayed over a quick final lap en route to his 13:48.62 victory.
Bekele, who was unavailable for comment after the race because he had an hour within which to beat the airport check-in, took the lead as the tightly knit pack reached the bell, and with less than 200 metres left, injected a brief surge that left the pursuers a couple steps behind. It was the Ethiopian’s second World Athletics Final win, adding to his victory in the 3000m in 2003.
Soi held on to finish runner-up behind a Bekele for the second straight day, reaching the line in 13:49.45, half a step ahead of Ethiopian teen phenom Abrehem Cherkos Feleke (13:49.66). Tariku, the younger Bekele, briefly appeared to be acting as his brother’s protector, exchanging elbows with Soi as the Kenyan tried to make his move at the bell. No hard feelings, apparently. After the race, the pair embraced, smiling. Tariku finished a distant fourth in 13:50.03, netting a cool $37,000 during his weekend in Stuttgart.
Bob Ramsak
