News

Feb. 4, 2006 - Sparkassen Cup, Stuttgart, Germany

Very fast early pace causes falter in Stuttgart

Saturday’s 3000m women’s race in Stuttgart was off to a fast start, with leaders reaching the first kilometer in a pace that was already five seconds under the world record. Stellingwerff attempted to race conservatively at the back, but was still under her goal 9-minute pace by six seconds after the first km (2:18 – 800m split and 4:24 – 1500m), which resulted in a disappointing finishing time of 9:27.57.

Being more of a 1500m runner, Stellingwerff feels she is better suited in an even-paced race and that this race was less than ideal for her. Although that was likely also felt by most in the race as nearly the entire field positive split the race by 10 seconds or more, which is not normal in a 3000m race.

“It was a tough race to be in,” says Stellingwerff. “I knew the pace was quick to start, but didn’t realize how much trouble I’d be in until about the half way point. It was definitely a learning experience.”

Since training has been going very well for Stellingwerff, she is only taking this race as a learning experience and not an indication of her fitness. She will move forward and look to the next race, which will be a 1500m on February 17th in Dusseldorf, Germany.

Meseret Defar, who was attempting the world record, still took the win at Stuttgart in 8:30.72, but missed the record by just over a second. Berhane Adere, who currently holds the indoor WR in this race (8:29.15), also fell off her record attempt and the pace of Defar, ended up second in 8:49.02.

For full IAAF story click here>>
For full results click here>>