Kenya's Beatrice Chepkoech Sets World Record in Monaco

Kenya's Beatrice Chepkoech smashed the world record in the women's 3,000 metres steeplechase setting a new record with a time of eight minutes 44.32 seconds at the Monaco Diamond League meeting.

Chepkoech, 27, wowed many after breaking the previous record mark of 8 minutes 52.78 set by Bahrain's Ruth Jebet in 2016 and, after breaking clear 2,000 metres into the race, she finished 16 seconds clear of her nearest rival.

The time also broke the national record time of 8:58.78 held by Cellphine Chespol set last year at Prefontaine Classic.

Speaking to reporters Chepkoech stated: "I am so grateful. "I said from the beginning, from the first lap, and I was watching the time, and I knew I was going to break the world record."

[caption caption="Kenya's Beatrice Chepkoech celebrates winning the Women's 3000m Steeplechase and setting a new World Record "][/caption]

The athlete further stated: "And I was aware the biggest chance will be in Monaco due to weather, crowds and the whole environment."

Chepkoech noted that she knew she was running fast splits hence not worried.

She further noted: "I felt strong during the race. My dream was to break 8:50 but not 8:44."

Chepkoech, who has been running for six years, which of them are in steeple stated: "It is great feeling I brought back to Kenya the steeple women record. I'm very proud of it."

The women's 3,000 metres steeplechase winner stated that her focus now is to run under 8.40.

Her previous best was 8:59.36 in Paris last month and she finished fourth in the 2016 Rio Olympics and 2017 London world championships.

[caption caption="Kenya's Beatrice Chepkoech "][/caption]

American world silver medallist Courtney Frerichs took second in a North American record of 9:00.85.

Frerichs stated: "That race was incredible. Eight seconds under the world record. It's such a huge step for the event."