The fact that Soboleva, a 1500m runner, went to the faster in the more competitive 800m event means there could be more surprises from the Russians in their quest for medals in Beijing next month.

Soboleva ascertained Russian depth in 800m, edging out Tatyana Andrianova who clocked 1:56.00 for second and Svetlana Klyuka 1:56.64.

"We have not met with Soboleva, but Beijing will be the perfect place to test who is stronger," said Jelimo.

"In Berlin, the other two had bad results. Klyuka was eleventh clocking 2:03.17 while Andrianova did not even finish the race," said Jelimo.

Kenya's two 800m runners have discussed the Russian threat. Jelimo said even Jepkosgei was in agreement that it required the duo to go an extra mile in their training to lock out Soboleva.

"Running at home and before your own crowd is one thing, but competing at the big stage far away from home with all eyes on you is another. I have tested my strength against some of the best in Paris and I believe that was a stronger field than what I faced in Berlin," she said.

Head coach Julius Kirwa said that he would take some time to discuss Kenya's strategy now that the Russians were creeping menacingly into the picture. Kirwa, however, confirmed that he was happy with Jelimo's performance so far and what was remaining was the final polishing of her skills.

"Her strong run in the second lap has been spectacular. It is this we intend to build on and see that, together with Jepkosgei, they can set out a stronger pace that will be difficult for the opposition to hold on to," said Kirwa.

(Xinhua News Agency July 22, 2008)