Kipruto claims 3,000m steeplechase world title

Olympic gold medallist Conseslus Kipruto added more glory to his name with victory in the men's 3,000 metres steeplechase at the IAAF World Athletics Championships here.

The Kenyan clocked eight minutes and 14.12 seconds on Tuesday to continue his in-form performance in the event after the Rio Olympic Games last year, reports Xinhua news agency.

"I'm happy to be world champion. Last year I became Olympic champion and this year to be world champion was my hope," Kipruto said.

"I used my plans well and last night I told myself, 'I am the Olympic champion and that others must break me'. There are others who are strong but I used my own plans," he added.

Soufiane Elbakkali of Morocco finished runner-up at 8:14.49. The bronze medal went to Evan Jager of the United States, who completed the race in 8:15.53.

"That was a bit of a surprise," Elbakkali said in tears.

"I thought I would maybe get a medal next time, so this is great," he added.

Jager however, was not happy with his performance.

"I'm really happy to be on the podium, but I'm also disappointed because I had pretty high hopes of coming here and winning gold," he said.

--IANS

ajb/bg