NAIROBI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Diamond Trophy winner Timothy Cheruiyot said he feels extra pressure to win gold at the upcoming World Championships after the withdrawal of defending champion and teammate Elijah Manangoi.
Cheruiyot will be the man to beat in the 1,500m race. Having finished second to Manangoi in several global championships, the 24-year-old believes the 2019 Doha World Championships are his for the taking.
"I know all eyes will be on me, not only to guide the team, but to ensure we retain the title," Cheruiyot said on Wednesday in Nairobi.
"It's a big responsibly and that calls for hard work, commitment and discipline. I must go the extra mile in training to achieve that."
Kenya head coach Julius Kirwa has asked the 52-member team to confirm their fitness levels as they move to residential training in Nairobi ahead of the Doha Worlds which run from September 27 to October 6.
World 1,500m champion Manangoi pulled out of the team with an ankle injury. However, Kirwa said some athletes wait until it's too late before revealing their medical state.
"I have been in the business for many years. [What Manangoi did] is the kind of bravery I want," said Kirwa, who added that some athletes would hide their injuries and struggle in the main race.
"Some runners finish last and then start complaining about injuries they have been carrying. If you are injured, do let us know your state. It will be good for everyone," added Kirwa.
Kenya has a huge list to draw from and Kirwa wants only fit runners to make the trip to Doha.
"In 1,500m alone, we have 49 athletes who have made the qualifying time and over 60 athletes taking part in the event. Therefore, I am not worried about replacements," he said.
