Kipruto working on fitness with eyes trained on title defence

World 3,000m steeplechase champion Conseslus Kipruto has vowed to defend his title during this year’s World Championships slated for July in Oregon, USA.

Kipruto will be gunning for a third consecutive world title but will have to return to his best following a prolonged period of injury layoff.

A combination of nagging injuries and off-field issues led to a dip in form for the decorated athlete.

However Kipruto who recently competed at the national championships and Kip Keino Classic, says he is working his way back to fitness, in time for the championships due for July 15-24.

 “I feel good to be back on track. I know I am not in good shape at the moment but I am confident I will be back to my best by June and defend my title in Oregon,” said Kipruto who already has a direct ticket to the championship courtesy of being the defending champion.

The 27-year-old, who has not won a competitive race since 2019 when he clinched gold in Doha, also revealed he has had mental struggles, during his time off the track.

“Since that year (2019) I have not run a good time. I have been struggling through races where I have been dropping out which I think has been contributed immensely by the mental struggles,” he said.

The Commonwealth Games and African champion says it pained him when Kenya lost the Olympic title last year in Tokyo.

“The steeplechase is regarded as a Kenyan race and watching it taken away from us was very painful, more so as I was the defending champion. I am however motivated to reclaim the title and return our lost glory,” he said.