06 Jul 2026

The world witnessed a tactical master class currently tormenting global quarter-milers taking centre stage at the Prefontaine Classic in Oregon, USA on Saturday night, snapping envisaged home soil celebration by American athletes.

Collen Kebinatshipi proved that his signature running style is an unstoppable force of nature as he stormed to victory in a highly decorated and star studded 400m event against among others, American and Olympic icon, Rai Benjamin.

Through the opening 100m, Kebinatshipi charged out aggressively to lead the pack.

However, the momentum altered by the 250-metre mark as Benjamin surged ahead, temporarily relegating Kebinatshipi to third.Local fans in Oregon felt entirely confident when Benjamin maintained his dominant front running position at the 350-meter mark, with Kebinatshipi chasing in second.

What makes Kebinatshipi terrifying on the circuit is his absolute refusal to run out of steam as he remains entirely relaxed, reading his opponents during the final bend.

Kebinatshipi emptied his energy reserve in the last 10-metre, unleashing enough sprint to catch up with Benjamin, taking him down on the verge of crossing the finish line, stopping the clock at 44.00 seconds, while Benjamin finished second in 44.11 seconds.

His performance dismantled a formidable field of seven elite American sprinters right on their home turf.

Confronted by unpredictable weather and a stadium where he has less support, Kebinatshipi against all odds adapted to the demanding conditions.

The positive showing did not end with the quarter-mile boundary as Olympic Champion, Letsile Tebogo secured second place in 200m, with a time of 19.93 seconds.ENDS