WORLD RECORD: Beatrice Chebet becomes fastest woman in 5000m history, clocks first-ever sub-14 minutes

Kenya's long-distance running queen Beatrice Chebet shattered the women's 5000m world record at the Prefontaine Classic, becoming the first woman in history to break the 14 minutes barrier.

The double Olympic champion returning to the scene of her world 10,000m record from last year, was tracked for most of the race by Gudaf Tsegay, who held the world record prior to today, and Agnes Jebet Ngetich.

But she kicked hard with 200 metres to go as Tsegay’s challenge began to fade and she was soon passed by Ngetich. Chebet was away and clear and crossed the line in 13:58.06, taking 2.15 seconds off the former world record of 14:00.21.

Ngetich was rewarded with a massive Personal Best (PB) of 14:01.29 (third fastest time in history), while Tsegay settled for third in 14:04.41.

"I'm so happy to become the first woman to run under 14 minutes," said an elated Chebet. "After Rome (where she ran 14:03.69), I knew that I was capable of running a world record. I told myself, 'if Faith is trying for a world record in Eugene, why not me too?'"

With her impeccable form, Chebet becomes the outright favourite to win the 5000m and 10,000m titles at the World Championships in Tokyo in September.