It was a night destined for the books at Hayward Field, Eugene, Oregon, where the 2025 Prefontaine Classic unfolded into one of the most electrifying chapters in athletics history. Kenya’s finest, Beatrice Chebet and Faith Kipyegon, redefined greatness with back-to-back world record-breaking runs that lit up the track and sent shockwaves across the global athletics community.
In the women’s 5000 metres, Beatrice Chebet delivered a performance of utter dominance and rhythm, crossing the line in a blistering time that eclipsed the previous world record. Her command of pace and her calculated surge in the final laps left the field behind, as the crowd erupted in disbelief and awe. It was not only a personal best but a rewriting of the record books.
Minutes later, Faith Kipyegon, already hailed as one of the greatest middle-distance runners of all time, stepped up in the 1500 metres — and delivered what can only be described as a masterclass. Clocking a new world record, Kipyegon once again demonstrated her uncanny ability to blend tactical brilliance with raw speed. She now holds multiple world records, affirming her legacy as a generational athlete whose impact stretches far beyond the track.
The Prefontaine Classic, part of the Wanda Diamond League series, has often produced jaw-dropping moments, but this edition surpassed expectations. With two world records falling within one meet — and to two Kenyan women — it sent a powerful message about Africa’s continued dominance in global distance running.
Speaking to reporters after her win, Kipyegon said, “I felt something special today. The energy, the crowd, the competition — it all came together. I’m grateful to be part of this moment.”
Chebet, visibly emotional, added, “It’s been years of hard work, early mornings, and faith. Breaking the world record means everything to me, but doing it here, in this stadium, is unforgettable.”
Both athletes have now etched their names into the sport’s elite pantheon, further amplifying Kenya’s already storied legacy in distance running. For young athletes watching across the continent, Chebet and Kipyegon’s feats offer more than a spectacle — they serve as inspiration, a loud reminder that greatness is possible, with grit, vision, and heart.
