Kenyan Beatrice Chepkoech leads African charge in steeplechase

Several African athletes will be in action on Monday as the IAAF World Championship continues in Doha, Qatar.

In the women’s 3 000m steeplechase Kenyan Beatrice Chepkoech has a chance to make up for what happened two years ago in London when Emma Coburn (USA) and Courtney Frerichs (USA) went 1-2 in the race after a series of bizarre events derailed Chepkoech.

The Kenyan missed the first water jump, having to double back and clear it, then took a tumble which ruined her chances.

Now, it may be payback time. Chepkoech set a magnificent world record last year and looks simply unbeatable.

In the men’s 5 000m and women’s 800m, it all seems wide open.

Men’s 5 000m defending champion Ethiopian Muktar Edris is not in the same form as when he rained on Mo Farah’s farewell parade in London, but he is here in Doha and determined to recapture his mojo.

There is scarcely a runner in the final who can be discounted, which should make for a great finish, whichever way the race goes.

In the women’s 800m Ugandans Winnie Nanyondo and Halimah Nakaayi, who showed plenty of spirit in the semifinals, will be up against Americans Ajee Wilson and Raevyn Rogers.

This could be another close finish.

In partnership with ANA and Sports Leo