Meselech Melkamu returns to IAAF World Challenge in Ostrava
Ostrava, Czech Republic – Meselech Melkamu of Ethiopia will return here to compete in the 50th jubilee edition of the Golden Spike - IAAF World Challenge – on May 31 May, according to a report by the IAAF.
Melkamu targeting fast 10,000m
Melkamu is the reigning World silver medalist in the 10,000m and African record holder in the event. The 25-year-old will compete in Ostrava’s municipal stadium for the seventh time since 2004 – she’s only missed 2005 since – and again in the Zatopek Memorial 10,000m.
She’s taken home two victories (5000m and 10,000m), one runner-up finish and a pair of third place showings after her debut here in 2004 as a junior where she finished 13th in the 1500m. Last year she won the 10,000m in 31:04.52, a performance which held up as the fastest of the 2010 season.
“I’m currently training well. I like the track, the organization and the spectators in Ostrava very much and I hope to run a fast race,” said Melkamu, who broke the African 10,000m record in Utrecht in 2009 with a 29:53.80 run making her the second fastest ever. “Last year I ran the fastest time of the year 2010 in Ostrava, but I’m focusing to run much faster this year. â€Â
Prior to Ostrava, Melkamu is planning to contest the 5000m at the Samsung Diamond League meet on 15 May.
