Reynold Kipkorir living his dream after sealing Olympic slot

Former World U20 champion Reynold Kipkorir Cheruiyot says it is a “dream come true” to finally make the Olympics, but believes it's not a hundred-percent given that Kenya will come home with a gold medal.

Cheruiyot was speaking moments after winning the men’s 1500m race at the Paris 2024 Olympics Kenya trials at Nyayo Stadium, where he recorded a time of 3:35.63.

29-year-old Daniel Kyumbe Munguti was second clocking 3:35.80, but will have to within June 30, work towards getting the required standard time of 3:33.50 to make the Summer Games.

Former World Champion Timothy Cheruiyot on the other hand lies among the “potential” names likely to get a place through the Athletics Kenya selectors, as he crossed the line third and in a time of 3:35.90.

Speaking about his landmark moment, Cheruiyot, who also won this year’s Kip Keino Classic said: “It was always my dream to make the Olympic Games and I am so delighted to be going to Paris.

“I have not enjoyed my sleep since last week thinking about today’s race but am glad it went all well.”

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On his chances to scoop gold, he was a tad hesitant saying: “It won’t be easy because the competition will be tough. There's the Olympic champion Jacob Ingebrigtsen and there’s also Kerr (Josh) of Great Britain. We have to go and work hard if we are to do well in the competition.”

The 19-year-old was however hopeful that with the resurgent company of Timothy Cheruiyot, Kenya’s chances in Paris stand high.

“Yes, I believe we (Kenyan team) can win the gold medal. You see Timothy is back, I believe we will be working together to ensure that one of us wins the title."

Asked about what needed working on in the national team camp, he added: “What we need is to work as a team. Personally, I know I need to improve on my speedwork, but everything will be done collectively.”

Cheruiyot has had himself a bright start to the year, coming agonizingly close to winning two Diamond League meets in Doha and Oslo in the last month.

Oslo Diamond League: Cheruiyot makes season-best but loses to Ingebrigtsen in climatic finish