Brian Wanyama
Kinyamal finished third in Heat Five in 1:45.86 while Wanyonyi won Heat Three in 1:44.64.
Kenyans have dominated the two-lap race in recent Olympics through the likes of Wilfred Bungei (Beijing 2008) world record holder David Rudisha (London 2012 and Rio 2016) and Emmanuel Korir (Tokyo 2020), leaving Kinyamal and Wanyonyi under pressure to step up.
” This medal has been ours for the longest time,” said Kinyamal. “We will work hard to ensure one of us clinches the title.”
After controlling a better part of the race, Kinyamal, the Commonwealth champion, added: “It was a great race and I thank God that I am in the semis.
” Next is to plot on how to tackle the semis. We hope to sail through and then strategise on how to approach the final.”
“Competition is high but I loved running in front thus controlling the pace and testing my reaction,” said Wanyonyi.
“We are under a little pressure but whatever comes our way, we will tackle it head on. But, first… go past the semis.”
Kidali Koitatoi was impressed with his performance despite failing to clinch an automatic slot. ”
“I am happy with my performance. I expected better but I have a problem with my leg from last week. I don’t know what it really is,” he said.
He was fifth in Heat Two after timing 1:45.84.
