Kenyan running sensation Beatrice Chebet has once again etched her name into the annals of athletics history, absolutely obliterating the world record in the women’s 5,000 meters at the prestigious Prefontaine Classic on Saturday.

The 25-year-old stormed to victory in an astonishing 13 minutes, 58.06 seconds, becoming the first woman EVER to dip under the magical 14-minute barrier in the event!

The athletics world watched in awe as Chebet, a true pride of Kenya, surpassed the previous record of 14:00.21 set by Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay at the same event in 2023.

This remarkable achievement cements Chebet’s status as a legend in the making.

As the race unfolded at Eugene’s iconic Hayward Field, it became clear that a monumental feat was on the cards.

Seemingly aware of the record within her grasp, Chebet unleashed a ferocious kick in the final 400 meters, a signature move that has brought her so much success.

The race was a testament to Kenya’s dominance in long-distance running, with Agnes Jebet Ngetich securing a strong second place in 14:01.29, further highlighting the depth of talent from the Rift Valley. Ethiopia’s Tsegay, the previous record holder, finished third in 14:04.41.

This incredible world record adds to an already glittering year for Chebet, who famously clinched double gold in both the 5,000m and 10,000m at the recent Paris Olympics, joining an elite club as only the third woman in history to achieve such a remarkable double.

Chebet had already signaled her intentions this season, setting the world-leading time of 14:06.39 in Rome last month.

Speaking after her record-breaking run, a beaming Chebet shared her strategic approach: “After running in Rome, I said I have to prepare for a record, because in Rome I was just running to win a race, but after running 14:03, I said that I’m capable of running a world record.”

It’s worth remembering that this isn’t Chebet’s first rodeo with world records. She also holds the 10,000-meter world record, which she set at last year’s Prefontaine Classic, blazing to an incredible 28:54.14 to become the first woman to break 29 minutes in that event.

The Prefontaine Classic, being the lone U.S. stop on the prestigious Diamond League track and field series, always promises thrilling action, and Beatrice Chebet certainly delivered a moment that will be remembered for generations.

Written by Samson Jura.