Chebet strikes gold, Kipyegon silver reinstated as Moraa claims bronze

Chebet, known as the 'smiling assassin' accelerated past Kipyegon down the home straight to take gold in 14:28.56 in the tension-packed final that pitted three world record holders.

Kipyegon, who finished second in 14:29.60, was disqualified for obstruction but Kenyan officials immediately appealed the decision but the jury was out at the time of going to the press.

That decision saw the immediate champion Sifan Hassan moved into the silver medal position with a time of 14:30.61 while Italy's Nadia Battocletti took bronze.

“I’m very sad about what has happened to Faith, I saw everything and hope justice will be served. That decision can affect our morale and so we hope our officials will win the appeal,” said Chebet.

“In spite of that, I’m happy to have finally given Kenya the first medal. I know some were impatient with us and I really want to call upon the Kenyans not to say bad things on social media. Please cheer us and we will win these gold.”

Chebet attributed her performance to hard work and also team work from her colleagues.

“I said during the semifinals that we will win medals if team up. We’ve done it. We gave each other morale before the race and that’s why we’ve won 1-2 regardless of the decision.”

The other Kenyan, Margret Chelimo, came in fourth with a season best time of 14:32.23.

“I’m contented with my position. Being my first Olympics I’m taking many positives from the race. I also congratulate Beatrice for winning the gold and wish the appeal for Kipyegon will go through,” she said.

Chebet will be keen to get a double over Hassan who is also the Olympic 10,000m reigning champion when the duo clash again in the 24-lap race on Friday.

In the women's 800m race, world champion Mary Moraa timed 1:57.42 to bag bronze, Kenya's second medal.

The race was won by Britain's Keely Hodgkinson who produced a thrilling gun-to-tape run to clock 1:56.72.

Ethiopian Tsige Duguma claimed silver in 1:57.15.