Those that tuned in to see the women’s 1500 in Zurich were treated to a fantastic show on Thursday. The Diamond Race was up for grabs for three women, including Jenny Simpson, who entered the Diamond League final after winning the 1500 in Stockholm last week.

Leaving nothing to chance, Simpson assumed control of the race right after the pacers stepped off. After kicking hard to win in Stockholm, we figured Simpson would opt for a sit-and-kick affair again, but she clearly felt more comfortable from the front on Thursday. 

Holding the lead coming around the bend of the final 150 meters, Simpson seemed self-aware. Sifan Hassan began to kick with around 100 to go, but Simpson stayed in control and was able to respond. No worries, we thought, she’s got this.

What happened next is our early favorite for the Moment of the Year. As Simpson looked poised to cruise in the final 50, Shannon Rowbury came out of nowhere, ready to spoil the Jenny parade. 

Simpson noticed the surge, nearly too late, but as the line approached the two women were essentially in a dead heat. Just when it seemed that Simpson had run out of gas and would succumb to her own medicine, she took to the air and dove for the line. As this was happening, Rowbury crossed the line simultaneously, herself crashing to the track as she fell in Simpson’s wake. 

When the dust had settled, the two Americans had finished .001 seconds apart. Simpson had just barely held off Rowbury, 3:59.92 to 3:59.93, and was awarded  the $40,000 for winning the Diamond Race, plus $10,000 for winning tonight’s race. Even though Simpson would have still won the Diamond Race if she had placed 2nd, that extra $10K was won by the slightest of margins.

With some cash and a few battle scars, Jenny Simpson enters the offseason after yet another outstanding season. With two World Championships medals and now a Diamond League title to her name, the only thing missing from Simpson’s resume is an Olympic medal. There’s still two years until Rio, but Simpson’s future is bright as she finishes 2014 #1 in the world.