Cole Hocker breaks Josh Kerr's heart to win shock Olympic gold as Scot lands silver

Heartbroken Josh Kerr won an Olympic Games silver as he chased down his great rival Jakob Ingebrigtsen but USA rival Cole Hocker outlasted him to claim gold in a 1500 metres final for the ages.

The Edinburgh superstar was full of belief heading into the marquee race in Paris, however, he came up short as the Norwegian's searing pace changed the rules of the race which cost our hero. Race lovers across the globe tuned into the biggest middle distance rivalry since the days of Sir Seb Coe and Steve Ovett and their epic duel in Moscow 44 years ago. The two best 1500m runners on the planet have created a can't miss spectacle with both acutely aware of the brilliance standing across from them.

Ingebrigtsen has been vocal over his surprise about Kerr's insistence to not race in every event – while BBC expert Steve Cram aired his surprise over how hard the Norwegian pushed the pace when they pair locked horns in the first semi final on Sunday night. And he once again made a beeline for the front in this pulsating showpiece. But it was Hocker's night in a Olympic Games 1500m that proved a classic.

Sportscotland Chief Executive, Forbes Dunlop said: "What an incredible performance by Josh Kerr to bring home the Silver medal. Performing at this level comes after years of hard work and dedication and Josh has put so much into preparing for these games, so it is amazing to see him rewarded with this medal. It is a fantastic moment for Josh, and everyone connected with Scottish Athletics. ”

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