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Men's 800 metres

Like in Athens, Wilson Kipketer set out at a near record pace, passing 200m in around 24 seconds at 400m in 49.73. David Kiptoo, often a pacemaker, was 10m behind at the bell this time. The phenomenal Dane continued with his silky smooth strides down the backstraight. His 600m split was 1:16.01, now well outside record. Kipketer still looked fabulous, but Kiptoo gained around the final bend. For an instant an upset looked possible. In fact, Kiptoo then faded and allowed Patrick Ndururi to sprint through into second place.

It was quite unusual to see someone catching Kipketer in the finishing straight, but the world record holder was never going to be caught. He won with seventh outdoor sub-1:43 clocking of the year, which equals his record total of 1997. It was his 25th successive win and it looks as if he will end his brilliant season with the IAAF Grand Prix Title and an end of season $250,000 dollar payout.
Winner's statements

"There is no secret to my running. When you train you must keep motivated and in each competition the same thing. I have a long way to go in my career. This wonderful year is by no means the end!
About the overall Grand Prix title I will make no comment yet, as of course the meeting is yet to finish. Anything might happen!"


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