BEIJING — Brimin Kipruto has continued a stretch of Kenyan winners in the Olympic men's 3,000-meter steeplechase that extends back to 1984.

World champion Kipruto, the silver medalist at Athens four years ago, won in 8 minutes, 10.34 seconds.

Mahiedine Mekhissi-Benabbad of France split up an expected Kenyan sweep, taking silver in 8:10.49.

Richard Mateelong of Kenya was third in 8:11.01.

Athens champion Ezekiel Kemboi faded to finish in seventh place.

Kenya has won seven straight medals in the men's 3,000-meter steeple chase since the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.