Yusuf Saad Kamel of Bahrain wins men’s 1,500; American Lagat is 3rd

Yusuf Saad Kamel of Bahrain wins men’s 1,500

BERLIN — Yusuf Saad Kamel of Bahrain charged from behind to win the 1,500-meter gold medal Wednesday, becoming a world champion like his Kenyan father.

Deresse Mekonnen of Ethiopia captured the silver and defending champion Bernard Lagat of the United States took the bronze in a finish that left the Kenyans without a medal.

“I am really happy because nobody expected such a race today,” said Kamel, who was born in Kenya and is a naturalized citizen of Bahrain.

Kamel used his long stride to decide the race in the home straightaway, winning his first major title in 3 minutes, 35.93 seconds. He won the indoor bronze medal last year in the 800.

“I was confident that I can win because I had good times at 800 meters and I felt OK,” Kamel said. “The Kenyans promised they were going to do a fast race but they did not. But even if they did, I was ready for it and I was not afraid. In the last 400 meters I already knew I was going to beat Lagat.”

Mekonnen, the indoor world champion, finished in 3:36.93 and Lagat in 3:36.20. Lagat was third much of the way, then fell behind in the final lap until he made a late charge heading for the finish.

“I was doing everything possible not to get blocked, but then these guys just came flying. By the time I tried to get out, with 100 meters to go, I was late. Too late,” said Lagat, who was also born in Kenya and competed for that country before becoming an American citizen.

“I was waiting to accelerate, to use my quick turnover at 50 meters, and that was my strategy,” Lagat added. “It is disappointing. But, I’ve been in this race so many times, I should know.”

Kamel’s father, Billy Konchellah, won a pair of 800-meter world titles.

“Now I want to get three to beat him,” Kamel said.

Augustine Choge of Kenya led after two laps, then Mekonnen took over but no one managed to open a significant lead until the finish. Choge, who has the fastest time in the world this year at 3:29:47, was also overtaken by Kenyan teammate Asbel Kiprop, who entered the championships unbeaten in four races.

“I just didn’t have the energy in the last 50 meters,” Choge said. “My legs gave up.”