France's Jimmy Gressier broke his first European record on Sunday (12) morning at the Monaco Run 5K.
The multiple European cross country medallist stopped the clock at 13:12 to take the victory and also improve the European 5km record of 13:14 set by his long-time continental rival Yemaneberhan Crippa last year.
"It was a controlled race. My pacers did a great job and the goal beforehand was to run close to 13:10. Given that goal, the European record could tumble. But I was not focused on the record too much. I came back from a great training camp in Kenya and I could feel my shape was getting better and better this week," said Gressier.
The main goal for Gressier this spring is his upcoming half marathon debut in Paris on 5 March but the multiple European cross country medallist will refocus on the shorter distances this summer and in the build-up to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
“I do not have specific goals on the road, but I am using this winter season to break up the usual rhythm with the 2024 Olympics in mind. I am running to have fun and to win. In the upcoming weeks I will line up in Castellon and Paris for a 10km and half marathon. This summer the focus will be the 1500m and 5000m,” said Gressier.
Steven Mills for European Athletics