Why Commonwealth Games bound Lilian Odira is confident of faster 800m times

Lilian Odira says Audrey Werro's historic breakthrough has convinced a new generation of 800m runners that faster times are within reach after successfully defending her national title at the Kenyan Championships on Saturday.

Odira produced a commanding performance to win the women's 800m in 2:00.44 at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, securing her place on Kenya's team for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

While pleased with the victory, the reigning world champion was particularly encouraged by the recent progress being made in women's middle-distance running.

"The competition was stiff because you can never underestimate any opponent," said Odira in an interview with World Athletics. "I implemented my tactics well because I wanted to defend my title. My first aim was to make the Commonwealth Games team, and then we move forward from here."

She added: "I was happy when Audrey Werro broke the 1:54 barrier. It showed us that it is possible and now that the door has been opened, everyone can manage to make it."

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Odira finished ahead of Naomi Korir (2:00.85) and Janet Amimo (2:01.13).

In the men's 800m, Wyclife Kinyamal revealed he had battled through injury concerns to claim victory in a dramatic finish.

The two-time Commonwealth Games champion edged Kelvin Loti by just 0.04 seconds, clocking 1:44.58.

"I had not trained for two weeks because I've been experiencing issues with my back," said Kinyamal. "I approached this race with a lot of caution, and I believe I won this race because of my experience."

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Timothy Cheruiyot was another athlete left delighted after signaling a return to his best form with victory in the men's 1500m.

The 2019 world champion held off a strong field to win in 3:32.28 and strengthen his hopes of finally landing Commonwealth Games gold after silver medals in 2018 and 2022.

"The competition was so strong, but I came here believing in myself, and I got the win," said Cheruiyot. "The season has been great so far, and I'm glad that I'm injury-free and my body is responding well in training."

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Naomi Korir completed a successful championships by adding the women's 1500m title to her 800m silver medal, winning in 4:08.57.

Elsewhere, Mathew Kipsang credited his early-season exposure to Diamond League competition for helping him secure the men's 5000m title in 13:45.37.

"Starting my season with the Diamond Leagues set me up very well for my victory today," said Kipsang. "I also enjoy competing in cross country because of the obstacles and the toughness that builds my endurance."

Looking ahead to Glasgow, Kipsang added: "I want to win a medal when I go for the Commonwealth Games. Hopefully, a gold medal."

The championships also produced impressive victories for Mercy Oketch in the women's 400m, Kelvin Tonui in the men's 400m, Ferdinand Omanyala in the men's 100m and Millicent Ndoro, who completed a sprint double by winning both the women's 100m and 200m titles.