June 2021 was the last time distance running legend and world record-holder Faith Kipyegon lost at either the mile or 1,500 meters.
Over five years later at the Prefontaine Classic in front of 12,452 spectators at Hayward Field, American Nikki Hiltz took down the legend in the women's mile race on the Fourth of July in 4 minutes, 17.49 seconds.
Kipyegon finished third in 4:17.80 while fellow Kenyan Dorcus Ewoi was second in 4:17.62 for a personal best.
Kipyegon, who typically rushes out to the front and has dominated opponents and put races away with more than a lap to go in the past, uncharacteristically ran a much-slower pace Saturday in Eugene.
Hiltz, who got the vibe that Kipyegon would do that very thing after her pre-race press conference, took advantage of the rare opportunity to outkick her down the homestretch to secure the stunning upset.
Over five years later at the Prefontaine Classic in front of 12,452 spectators at Hayward Field, American Nikki Hiltz took down the legend in the women's mile race on the Fourth of July in 4 minutes, 17.49 seconds.
Kipyegon finished third in 4:17.80 while fellow Kenyan Dorcus Ewoi was second in 4:17.62 for a personal best.
Kipyegon, who typically rushes out to the front and has dominated opponents and put races away with more than a lap to go in the past, uncharacteristically ran a much-slower pace Saturday in Eugene.
Hiltz, who got the vibe that Kipyegon would do that very thing after her pre-race press conference, took advantage of the rare opportunity to outkick her down the homestretch to secure the stunning upset.
3 months ago
