| The first lap timed by transponder in 63.32 (by Ayeko) suggested that a fast race was in store, but a second lap in the 69s set the tone for a comfortably-paced first half. Halfway was reached by Tanui in 13:50.02 by transponder (or 13:49.95 by photo-cell). Farah, who had led briefly from 2400m, was lurking in the pack. Tanui still led at 8000m (22:11.50) with Farah’s training partner Rupp on his shoulder. Farah took the lead with 4½ laps to go, but the next two circuits brought only a slight pace increase. Ritzenheim went ahead briefly, passing 9000m in 24:55.58. Within 200m, Farah was in front again and picked up the tempo with a 24th lap of 60.63. At the bell, it was Farah with five others still in close contention. Tanui and Kuma were the Briton’s closest chasers until 180m remained, when reigning champion Jeylan moved ominously into second place, poised to outkick Farah as he had done in 2011. This time the Briton stayed ahead with a 12.82 final 100m compared with the Ethiopian’s 13.15. Farah’s last lap took 54.41 by transponder (or 54.49 cell). |
