Farah takes charge of 10K with late push

By Doug Binder, DyeStat Editor

EUGENE -- The incomparable Mo Farah provided another thrilling finish in the 10,000 meters at Hayward Field to conclude the first day of competition at the Prefontaine Classic. 

Farah, who has lived at least part-time in Beaverton, Ore. for six years, sped away from challenger William Malel Sitonik of Kenya in the final 100 meters to win the second deepest 10,000 meters in history at Hayward Field in 26 minutes, 53.71 seconds. 

Nineteen men ran under 28 minutes. Only the 2012 Olympic final has seen more. The top five ran faster than 17 minutes.  

"I want to defend my titles," said Farah, who said he was seeking an even faster time. "I need to stay focused and keep training."

It was Farah's third-fastest 10,000 meters ever and it was entertaining to a Hayward Field crowd of about 4,000. 

"It means a lot to me (to perform well at Hayward)," Farah said. "They give me a great reception."

Friday evening's free portion of the meet included a three Diamond League field events, plus the hammer, a women's 800 and 5,000 and a high school 400 meters for boys and girls attending the Nike Elite Camp.

Olympic champion Brittney Reese won her first Prefontaine Classic title, beating a top field with her first attempt of 22-8.50 (6.92m). 

Afterward, Reese said she was targeting a jump of 7.45 meters (24-5.50) this summer -- mark she said it would take to win the gold in Rio de Janeiro.

World champion Joe Kovacs threw a world leading 72-7.25 (22.13m) to win the shot put. Reese Hoffa, in his final Pre Classic appearance, was third with 67.6.25 (20.58m).

Sandra Perkovic of Croatia won the women's discus competition with her first round throw of 224-11 (68.57m). She owns three of the four best throws in the world so far this year.

Alysia Montano ran a strong 2:00.78 and held off Kate Grace to win the women's 800 meters. 

Hellen Obiri led a 1-4 Kenya sweep of the women's 5,000 meters, breaking the tape in 14:32.02. American Molly Huddle was 11th in 14:48.14.