Xiamen DL: Kenya misses out on steeplechase glory as Ethiopia’s Firewu stuns El Bakkali

Kenya's hopes of a podium sweep in the men’s 3000m steeplechase went up in smoke at the Diamond League meeting in Xiamen, China, as Simon Koech’s third-place finish proved to be the country's only spot in the top three.

Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More News

Youngster Edmund Serem narrowly missed out, finishing fourth in an impressive Diamond League debut with a time of 8:08.50, while Abraham Kibiwott, who had led for much of the race, faded to finish seventh, crossing the line in 8:10.13.

Instead, it was Ethiopia’s Samuel Firewu who stole the show, producing a perfectly timed surge in the final lap to defeat Olympic champion Soufiane El Bakkali and clinch victory in a meeting record time of 8:05.61.

The race had begun at a blistering pace, with Kibiwott taking command early, shadowed closely by El Bakkali and Firewu. Through the first 1600m, the Kenyan led confidently, seemingly setting the stage for a big finish. But as the laps wore on, the dynamics of the race shifted.

Faith Kipyegon sets record after opening track season in Xiamen Diamond League

El Bakkali, known for his devastating finishing kick, moved up with intent after the 2000m mark, briefly taking the lead. However, Firewu had other plans. The Ethiopian capitalised on a momentary hesitation from the Moroccan, storming past him in the final stretch to claim a stunning win.

The Moroccan had to settle for second, clocking a season’s best 8:06.66, while Koech powered through in the closing meters to secure third in 8:07.12, salvaging a podium spot for Kenya.

Omanyala extends early season form in Xiamen Diamond League

For Kibiwott, it was a frustrating finish after setting the early tone, while Serem’s fourth-place run hinted at a promising future for the 21-year-old, younger brother of Amos Serem.