Dogged runs
While many would struggle to even keep up with elite athletes as they go about their job, a stray dog showed it was more than game for the challenge. Joining the runners almost six-and-a-half kilometres into the race, the canine joined the bunch trailing Mule Wasihun before upping the pace and catching up to the leader, much to the surprise of the Ethiopian, who leapt out of the way to avoid the four-legged speedster.
While it gave way after the 8-km mark, it seemed harmless enough but did question the volunteers’ capability a bit while giving some of the runners a scare.
“The dog was with us for over 700 meters, I was a bit scared but just kept running,” said John Langat, who finished second, after the race.
For the Ethiopians it was all in a day’s work after stating that they have seen hyenas while training back home. Oh well..!
Mike groovin’
Mike Powell is not just a legendary athlete. He is an entertainer. Plain and simple. With the hit Daft Punk music blaring through the stadium as the athletes made their way to the finish line, the American was at the end waiting for the runners.
And he wasn’t merely standing. Powell showed off his dance skills with some choice moves as he grooved to the music. And typical of the long jump world record holder, he owned that too!
In the heat of the moment
While the World 10K was clearly well planned and successful, there was one universal suggestion from all the runners in the World 10K event. An earlier start time.
While Bengaluru weather is as unpredictable as they come, Sunday’s heat worked heavily against the runners including one, Gladys Chesir, who fell following dehydration.
“The difficult thing was weather. It was very hot. I think if they make the start time earlier, it would be better for us in terms of timings,” said Mosinet Geremew, whose words were echoed by almost everyone.
But Helah Kiprop had other ideas. “This is the last race for me before Olympics. I am heading back home to train. The weather here is similar to that of Rio so it was good practice. Hopefully, I can get a medal there too,” she said.
