The world under-20 1,500m champion Reynold Kipkorir has explained reasons why he slowed down to allow Timothy Cheruiyot to win the three-and-a-half lap race during last weekend's National Trials.
The fast-rising star said he has a lot of respect for the 2019 world 1,500m champion and felt weird crossing the line ahead of him.
Cheruiyot will lead Kipkorir and Abel Kipsang in the 1500m race during the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary slated for August 19-27.
"He is my role model. I have much respect for him as he is always encouraging me to work hard. He even calls me regularly to check on my progress in training and that is why I would do anything for him," said Kipkorir.
He added: "Cheruiyot has achieved a lot for the country and thus deserves a lot of respect. My target is to have a similar cabinet of achievements. I credit my achievements to him," he added. The 18-year-old Kipkorir finished third in a race won by Cheruiyot.
Cheruiyot clocked 3:34.01 to win the race edging out the world indoor 1500 bronze medalist Abel Kipsang to second in 3:34.30 while Kipkorir cut the tape in 3:34.34.
Kipkorir slowed down and waved at his mentor to take the win despite having the lead with metres to the finish line. " This was one way of expressing my respect for him," he noted.
"I had the opportunity to win the race but I saw Cheruiyot behind and I decided to let him through. It didn't feel nice cutting the tape ahead of him. It's good to show respect for elders," he said.
He added: "In Budapest, I will listen to whatever he tells me but in case we have a chance for a double podium, I will let him win again. I can settle for silver provided the gold comes home with him."
On his side, the 2020 Tokyo Olympic silver medalist acknowledged Kipkorir as a hardworking young runner who will play a critical role in the team's quest to reclaim the lost gold medal at the global show in August.
"He is young and I see him as the future champion. He will help us a lot in Budapest since he is able to pace with Jakob. We will work together as a team and see how we can utilize everyone's strength as we target to reclaim our title," said Cheruiyot.
Cheruiyot who has been battling injuries said he feels great and ready to battle for the world title. "It feels great to be back to my best. The next step is to return to the top. I will use my experience with the help of my team-mates to reclaim the gold although it will not be an easy task."
The trio will face stiff competition from Norwegian Jakob Ingebrigtsen who has become tough to handle due to his unmatched pace.
The Norwegian clocked seven minutes and 54.10 seconds to set a new tw0-mile distance record at the Meeting de Paris last month. The 26-year-old record was previously held by Kenyan Daniel Komen.