The "Orenburg Mile" competition took place on January 24 in Orenburg.
Keneshbekov competed in the distance of 2 miles (3218 meters), finishing second, only behind Vladimir Nikitin, who became the new record holder for Russia at this distance with a time of 8 minutes 29.74 seconds.
The Kyrgyzstani completed the distance in 8 minutes 33.94 seconds, setting a new record for his country.
In an interview with Sport AKIpress, Keneshbekov shared his impressions of participating in the competition.
- How did you find yourself at the start in Russia again?
- Everything is the same. I have a manager who invited me to participate. Vladimir Nikitin planned to break the Russian record, and I was offered to help him. I was also looking for an opportunity to compete before the Asian Championship, so I agreed.
- How did the race go? How many participants were there in this competition?
- Since the goal was to set a Russian record, there were not many participants — only 5-6 people. I started first and helped Nikitin. With 400 meters to go, he pulled ahead and set a new record. I finished second and also with a country record.
- Were there any prizes?
- For 2nd place, I received 50,000 rubles, as well as 25,000 rubles for the country record.
- You have already established yourself in Russia.
- Yes, I am invited to many competitions. I received another invitation, but the dates coincide with the Asian Indoor Championships.
