“Hayward is Magic”: Kipyegon Reacts to Record-Breaking Run in Oregon

Kenya’s middle-distance queen, Faith Kipyegon, has expressed her gratitude and joy after rewriting history yet again by breaking her own 1500m world record at the Eugene Diamond League.

The three-time Olympic champion stunned the athletics world with a sensational time of 3:48.68, slicing 0.36 seconds off her previous record set in 2023.

Kipyegon’s remarkable performance came during the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon—a night she described as magical and unforgettable.

“WORLD RECORD – 3:48.68 🥹💜 In life, many times things come to you in an indirect way. Last week we dared to try. This week, I was able to break the 1500m world record & win my 7th @preclassic, a night to remember ❤️ Thank you all for the best support, Hayward is true magic 🪄,” Kipyegon shared on social media after the race.

Speaking about the support she received from fans at Hayward Field, the 31-year-old said the atmosphere gave her extra motivation to push past her limits.

“I felt at home. People were waiting for me, cheering for me. After what I tried last week, it gave me motivation that I can do better. I proved to them that everything is possible.”

Just over a week earlier, Kipyegon had come agonizingly close to breaking the elusive four-minute barrier in the mile, but the near-miss only fueled her determination heading into Eugene.

READ ALSO: Kipyegon and Chebet Shatter World Records at Eugene Diamond League

A Night of Kenyan Dominance

The Eugene Diamond League meeting proved historic not only for Kipyegon but also for fellow Kenyan star Beatrice Chebet, who shattered the women’s 5000m world record with a breathtaking time of 13:58.06. The 25-year-old eclipsed the previous mark set by Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay, also at Hayward Field in 2022.

“When I was coming here to Eugene, I was coming to prepare to run a world record. I’m so happy,” said Chebet, thrilled after her landmark win.

The performances by Kipyegon and Chebet were part of an electric evening at the Prefontaine Classic, which featured a star-studded lineup including 17 Paris Olympic champions and 14 current world record holders. The meet reaffirmed Kenya’s dominance on the track ahead of the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.

Looking Ahead

Kipyegon’s win marks her seventh victory at the Prefontaine Classic, making her one of the most celebrated athletes in the meet’s history. With her form peaking at the right moment, expectations are high as she gears up for the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she will look to defend her titles and possibly set more records.