PARIS: Netherlands’ Sifan Hassan will defend her Tokyo Olympic 5,000 metres and 10,000 titles and take on the marathon in Paris, she said on Wed­nesday, taking on an astonishing agenda even though she has dropped the 1,500 from her programme.

Hassan, who was initially registered to compete in all four events, sent shockwaves through the sport when she attempted an unprecedented Tokyo treble three years ago.

One of the toughest figh­ters on the track, Hassan fell during her opening 1,500 heat but came roaring back to advance and ultimately take bronze.

She later said that the stress of chasing the Tokyo agenda left her exhausted but was all smiles as she announced a gruelling new programme for Paris.

“I’m really curious what’s going to happen,” the Ethiopian-born runner told reporters.

Hassan will begin her Olympic campaign with the 5,000 opening round on Friday and the final set for Monday.

With the 10,000 medal race scheduled for August 9, she will have less than 48 hours’ rest before attempting the marathon, making for an astonishingly tough assignment.

The 31-year-old is seeking to become the first woman to win gold in the three events.

Published in Dawn, August 1st, 2024