Nicholas Kimeli explains reason behind his poor form on the track this season

During the World Championships National Trials held at the Nyayo National Stadium, Nicholas Kimeli was in a class of his own as he floored his compatriots to win the 10,000m and secure a chance to the global showpiece.

Kimeli then went to the World Championships but failed to live up to the billing, finishing eighth in the 10,000m and failing to proceed to the final in the men’s 5000m after he finished 14th.

However, it was not to his liking that he did not perform well since he had just suffered an injury setback.

Speaking to Nation Sport, Kimeli explained that he did not expect to even win the bronze medal at the World Road Running Championships after his poor season on the track.

“I was not hoping to get number three because my season has not been good. However, I thank God because he has helped me get the bronze that I missed at the World Championships," said Kimeli.

"I don’t want next season to get me unawares like this season. I want to go and sit down with my coach and plan my season very well.

"I had an injury that took almost six months of my time from training and that is why my form this season has not been the best. We hope for the best next year,” he said.

He also fired warning shots at his Ethiopian opponents, including Yomif Kejelcha, noting that next year, Team Kenya will be back better.

The Ethiopians have for long been a nightmare to Kenyans when it comes to road races and long-distance events but Kimeli believes that with the right training techniques, everything will be set.