Caleb Ndiku wins the 3000m at the IAAF Continental Cup, Marrakech 2014 (© Getty Images)
The men’s 3000m was another contest that went according to the play book with Caleb Ndiku collecting a convincing victory for Africa.
Controlling much of the latter stages of the race, the 21-year-old Kenyan powered away from Azerbaijani Hayle Ibrahimov down the home stretch to take the win unchallenged in 7:52.64. He was nonetheless humble after crossing the line to take a fifth major title accolade this season after his world indoor 3000m title, his Commonwealth and African titles in the 5000m and the Diamond Race trophy for the distance.
“I wasn’t expecting to come first, but I did it,” said Ndiku, who was the world leader in the event at 7:31.66. “It was only the last 100 metres when I felt strong that I could do it.”
Ndiku tussled with Ibrahimov and Bahraini Aweke Ayelew at the head of the pack mid-race, but when he broke, only European silver medallist Ibrahimov gave chase, his persistence awarded with a runner-up finish here as well in 7:53.14.
Although he fell out of the hunt for the win over the final lap, defending champion Bernard Lagat ran admirably to finish third for Americas in 7:53.95. He acknowledged the appreciative crowd with several bows before exiting the track.
Bob Ramsak for the IAAF
