Athletics: Morocco’s King congratulates Soufiane El Bakkali for winning 3,000m steeplechase world title
King Mohammed VI has sent a message of congratulations to champion Soufiane El Bakkali for winning gold Tuesday in the 3,000m steeplechase at the World Athletics Championships held in Budapest.
In this message, the Monarch lauded the athlete’s remarkable performance which enabled him to win this world title for the second consecutive time, becoming an inspirational source of pride for Moroccan sport.
The King praised El Bakkali’s sustained efforts, hard work, determination, and great patriotism, which led him to represent his country in the best possible way, raising the national flag high at international competitions.
The Sovereign also wished the Moroccan athlete further success in his sporting career.
El Bakkali retained his world title in the 3000m steeplechase after beating the world record holder Lamecha Girma of Ethiopia thanks to a brilliant late surge.
El Bakkali stormed to victory in 8:03.53, advancing comfortably Lamecha Girma (8:05.44), while Kenyan Abraham Kibiwott finished third clocking 8:11.98.
The Moroccan athlete ran a smart race, staying slightly back from the lead and saving his energy. When Girma went to the lead with 5:45 showing on the clock, El Bakkali stayed close behind waiting for the right moment to strike.
