East Asia Stars Shine as Records Tumble in Monaco
Athletes from around the globe delivered stunning performances at the Diamond League.
Monaco witnessed a flurry of athletic brilliance, with athletes from East Asia stealing the show amid a series of impressive victories and personal bests. Several competitors came close to breaking world records on Friday.
Kenyan Runner Clocks Personal Best
Nelly Chepchirchir showcased her dominance, winning the rarely contested women’s 1000m. She secured victory with a personal best of 2:29.77, narrowly missing the world record.
Steeplechase Victory for El Bakkali
In the men’s 3000m steeplechase, Morocco’s Soufiane El Bakkali triumphed, outpacing Japan’s Miura Ryuji with a final time of 8:03.18.
Despite finishing second, Miura Ryuji made waves by setting a new Japanese national record in the 3000m steeplechase, clocking in at 8:03.43.
Woo Sanghyeok Equals World Lead
The Republic of Korea’s Woo Sanghyeok matched the world-leading height in the high jump. He cleared 2.34m to secure first place, with Czechia’s Jan Stefela following at 2.32m.
The global high jump standard has been impressive this year, with several athletes clearing 2.33m or higher, including Mutaz Essa Barshim, highlighting fierce competition (World Athletics).
Shot Put Triumph for Schilder
In women’s shot put, the Netherlands’ Jessica Schilder emerged victorious. Her impressive throw measured 20.39m, surpassing Team USA’s Chase Jackson (20.06m) and Canada’s Sarah Mitton (20.00m).
Triple Jump Win for Jordan Scott
Jamaica’s Jordan Scott leaped to victory in the men’s triple jump. His personal best jump was marked at 17.52m, edging out Algeria’s Yasser Mohammed Triki (17.23m).
Hurdles Highlights
The high hurdles events featured stellar performances. Team USA’s Trey Cunningham clinched the men’s 100m hurdles title in 13.09 seconds. Jamaica’s Megan Tapper matched her personal best in the women’s 100m hurdles, earning her first place with a time of 12.34 seconds.
Other Notable Victories
Additional winners included Ethiopia’s Yomif Kekelcha in the men’s 5000m, plus the Dominican Republic’s Marileidy Paulino in the women’s 400m.
The Diamond League circuit heads to London next, where more world-class track and field is expected on July 19th.