Inside New York's Madison Square Garden at the 103rd Millrose Games, American Bernard Lagat stole the show, winning his eighth title Friday night in the Wanamaker Mile. The victory gave Lagat one more title than the great "Chairman of the Boards," Eamonn Coghlan, who happened to be in attendance.
Even more impressive, Lagat accomplished his feat against a talented field of runners, including 1500m Olympic champion Asbel Kiprop of Kenya.
Lagat positioned himself directly behind Kiprop for much of the race, content to let Kiprop push the pace. As both men approached the bell lap, Lagat made his move, exploding down the straightaway on the outside and taking the lead.
Lagat then relied on his shorter frame and indoor experience to run a great curve on the boards, as he quickly separated himself from the other leaders.
Kiprop and Britain's Andrew Baddeley were unable to mount any response to Lagat's move, and Lagat easily cruised to the finish line in a time of 3:56.34. Kiprop placed second in 3:58.03, while Baddeley finished third in 3:58.09.
Fittingly, Coghlan congratulated Lagat immediately after the race.
Although Lagat is 35-years-old, he still is capable of having a great 2010 season, provided he can remain healthy. Lagat proved as much during the 2009 Berlin World Championships, when he earned a silver and a bronze medal in the 5000m and 1500m, respectively.
In other events, American Ivory Williams upset Mike Rodgers in the 60m, thanks to his excellent start. Williams' winning time was 6.59 seconds.
American Terrence Trammel won the 60m hurdles, while former NFL defensive back Anthony Dorsett won the Super 60 race in an event featuring such NFL speedsters as Tim Dwight, Willie Gault, and Phillip Buchanon.
By Mike Elliott
Staff Editor for TheDailySportsHerald.com
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