Noah Kibet hopes for Diamond League invitation after Simbine Classic victory

The Kenyan middle-distance runner finished ahead of Great Britain’s Elliot Giles (1:45.82) while South Africa’s Christopher Swart (1:46.21) placed third at the Pilditch Stadium in Tshwane on Tuesday evening.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Kibet said he was excited to be in South Africa and pleased with the time he posted.

“First of all, I am so happy to be in South Africa. It is my first time here and I won the race in my season opener in 1:44.96. I am feeling so excited and I am happy to be here and winning. Hopefully this win will open my season and maybe I will get an invitation to the Continental Tour or the Diamond League,” said Kibet 

READ: Prudence Sekgodiso clocks PB to win inaugural Simbine Classic

The 22-year-old also broke down his race strategy in the 800m final.

“You know, before I started, I was feeling like I don't want to go fast - maybe I will mess up. So, I was just being patient. With 600m to go I was still feeling strong, and then at 700m I realised I was closer to the finish line, so I kept pushing and I won the race. So ja, I am so excited.”

Kibet added that the conditions at the Pilditch Stadium were favourable.

“The conditions were really good. I train at a higher altitude, so I just felt here it was normal. I didn’t feel like it was hard. That’s how I managed to run, because where I train the altitude is higher than here.”

The total prize purse for the main programme at the Simbine Classic was R1.46 million - the highest ever sum offered for a track and field competition in South Africa - with each winner bagging R50,000. Kibet said he plans to invest his winnings for his family.