A big thumbs up to Akbache and Kiprugut for tops pacing through 1k. The 55/56 for laps 1 and 2 were outstanding. Also, a nod to Jakob for going with the pacers. Many times, athletes ask for specific paces then fail to go with the requested splits. Great race all around.
It seems that Jakob is developing a special bond with Akbache. He seemed to request something specific on the start-line just as the camera turned to them.
And then you have the post race celebration and photo. It would be cool if they can maintain and elevate this runner-pacemaker partnership into even higher heights.
jiggymeister wrote:
It seems that Jakob is developing a special bond with Akbache. He seemed to request something specific on the start-line just as the camera turned to them.
And then you have the post race celebration and photo. It would be cool if they can maintain and elevate this runner-pacemaker partnership into even higher heights.
I would agree. They even went out of their way to take a picture together post race.
Akbache is a reliable pacer. He is a professionnal pacer for years now. I think it's his only activity to make a living.
You see his experience at the start when he made sure to take the lead in the right pace, controlling the field with his arm.
Kiprugat looked like he was giving everything he had for those 30 extra pacesetter seconds he gave them.
I've never seen a pacer look like he was going absolutely all out that visually. Maybe its just his running form