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The 30-year-old is a former 1500m world Champion.
After making an impressive debut over the 5000m distance, former world 1500m champion Elijah Manangoi has now set his sights on the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.
Manangoi ran a tactical race to win ahead of his competitors. He noted that he was trying out the 5000m to test his endurance levels and he was happy with his body's response.
The 30-year-old was in the lead pack from gun to tape but attested that he had doubts about breaking away because he had not mastered the tactics of the 12-and-a-half lap race.
"This is my first 5000m race and I am happy with how my body has responded. To be honest, I was a bit worried about kicking but I'm glad I was able to control the pace till the end.
My main focus right now is the World Championships, that is all," he said.
Kenya lost the 1500m world title to Great Britain's Jake Wightman during last year's World Championships. The event also saw no Kenyan making it to the podium unlike in 2019 where Timothy Cheruiyot destroyed a strong field to win the race.
Manangoi revealed that he is aware Kenya's dominance in the race has been shaken but he is keen to work with compatriots Cheruiyot and Abel Kipsang to bring the glory back.
"I am aware of many strong guys who are coming up. However, I will work together with my brothers to see how we can retain the dominance," he said.
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