If he was older and could run 27 he would likely have a trail of performances to show it.
You are correct and that is the only performance that I can find for him on world athletics. He's definitely a mystery boy or mystery man whatever the case may be but undoubtedly a very talented runner.
I've read here several times that when Kenyans or Ethiopians don't know their birth date, they just put 1/1.
It's not just African nations. Many SE Asian countries have had this same issue back in the 70's in the aftermath of the Vietnam War, Cambodian genocide, and Laos Civil War although a lot less now. Myanmar also falls into this category with many of their ethnic minorities that have been persecuted by the military junta.
5. Biyazen Ethiopia 27:32.51 (17) in Japan 2017 (High school import)
Top non African
24. Murayama Japan 28:23.18 (17) Yokohama 2010
Kiplimo was allegedly 15, not 16 when he ran 27:26.
If true, 27:26 at 15 years has to be one of the world’s top performances in any sport or endeavor. Monster territory at age 15. In our countries most 15 year old boys are inextricably linked to their computers and iPads. Most humans cannot run one lap at that pace, 66-66.5 seconds. Mini monster - Kiplimo, and always smiling! Charisma.
5. Biyazen Ethiopia 27:32.51 (17) in Japan 2017 (High school import)
Top non African
24. Murayama Japan 28:23.18 (17) Yokohama 2010
NOT under 18 but …
Wanjiru - 26:41.75 - 18y289d
Kemboi - 26:30.03 - 19y284d
So many post adolescent mini Monsters. This makes one think that (like swimmers), distance runners can reach their peak in their late teens, early twenties. People stating that you have to be somewhat mature to set distance records I think are misguided.
You are correct and that is the only performance that I can find for him on world athletics. He's definitely a mystery boy or mystery man whatever the case may be but undoubtedly a very talented runner.
Certainly he doesn’t look blatantly old like Muktar Edris or Isaiah Koech. I’m going to presume he is more likely to be born in ‘05 or ‘04. It is not particularly uncommon for a young athlete in Ethiopia to not have a registered result until age 18 or 19. Either way he’s a good talent, but it would be good if they get an exact birthdate that puts him at 18 or older for Worlds (eligible to compete). As it stands Worku will go, and I’d be wary of any athlete being able to make that 10K team for Paris.
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