Chebet and Kipyegon Smash Records at Eugene

Kenya’s dominance in middle- and long-distance running was on full display Saturday at the 2025 Prefontaine Classic, as Beatrice Chebet and Faith Kipyegon each set breathtaking world records in the 5000m and 1500m, respectively.

The Diamond League confirmed that Chebet made history by running 13:58.06, becoming the first woman ever to dip below 14 minutes in the event. Just 80 minutes later, Kipyegon smashed her own 1500m world record with a time of 3:48.68.

Chebet Breaks the 14-Minute Barrier

Chebet, who had already flirted with the world record pace earlier this year, delivered a tactical and bold run. Paced through the early stages by a strong field, she hit 3000m in 8:22.96 and maintained enough in the tank to accelerate with 200 meters to go.

She crossed the line in 13:58.06, obliterating Gudaf Tsegay’s previous mark of 14:00.21 set at the same venue in 2023.

“I’m so happy to become the first woman to run under 14 minutes,” said Chebet. “After Rome, I knew I could do it.”

Agnes Ngetich took second in 14:01.29—the third-fastest time in history—while Tsegay finished third in 14:04.41.

Kipyegon Does It Again

Returning to the global spotlight just one week after running an unofficial world-best mile, Faith Kipyegon proved once again she is the greatest female miler in history.

She followed her pacer closely through 800m, with Jessica Hull keeping pace behind. But with 300 meters left, Kipyegon turned on the jets and left the pack behind, finishing in 3:48.68.

Diribe Welteji of Ethiopia came in second at 3:51.44, followed by Hull in 3:52.67 and Georgia Bell in 3:54.76.

Prefontaine Classic at 50: A Golden Milestone

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Prefontaine Classic could not have asked for a more electrifying edition. Chebet and Kipyegon’s records solidify Eugene’s reputation as a home for world-class distance running and Kenyan excellence.