World 5000m bronze medalist Jacob Krop claimed victory in the men’s 3000m race at a non-Diamond League event in Zurich on Thursday evening, showcasing pacing and strong finishing to secure the win.
Krop clocked 7:34.80 to cross the finish line ahead of Cornelius Kemboi, the African 5000m bronze medalist, who recorded a time of 7:35.46.
Kenyan-born Belgian Isaac Kimeli achieved a personal best of 7:41.30, securing third place in the race.
The event highlighted Krop’s tactical approach and endurance, as he took the lead during the third lap and held it through to the end.
His impressive performance was noteworthy, falling just two minutes short of the meet record set by Morocco’s Saïd Aouita in August 1998.
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Following his victory, Krop, a Commonwealth Games bronze medalist, shared in a post-race interview: “First of all, getting this win today is very important to me. Honestly, I didn’t expect the weather to be so cold, but I adapted well. We made our plan before the race, and I executed it as needed. This isn’t my first time racing here, I’ve competed here several times, so it feels great to come away with a win. I feel like the season is winding down, and I want to finish it on a high note. I hope to run something special in Brussels and close out the season in style over 5000m.”
Ethiopia’s Addis Ababa Yihune put in a strong effort, finishing just behind Kimeli with a time of 7:41.81. Although he missed a podium finish, his performance was notable and full of potential.
American William Kincaid followed closely, taking fifth place with a time of 7:42.75, while Switzerland’s Jonas Raess delivered a competitive 7:43.01 finish.
Ireland’s Nicholas Griggs, one of the younger athletes in the race, finished in seventh place with a time of 7:43.44.
Behind him, Dutch runner Mike Foppen took eighth in 7:44.20, while France’s Hugo Hay secured ninth with a time of 7:44.46.
Canadian Charles Philibert-Thiboutot rounded out the top ten with a time of 7:53.42. Although finishing eleventh in 8:05.00, Ethiopia’s Mezgebu Sime showed resilience, competing strongly against a formidable field.
