Joshua Cheptegei is expected to create history as he leads Uganda’s hopes of winning medals at the IAAF World Athletics Championships, which begin tomorrow, Friday in Doha, Qatar at the multi-purpose Khalifa International Stadium.
Long-distance runner, Cheptegei won Uganda’s only medal at the last championship in 2017 in London. He scooped a silver medal after coming second in a highly contested 5000m final that was won by Britain’s Mo Farah.
A month ago, Cheptegei became the first Ugandan to ever win a Diamond League trophy after setting a personal best in the 5000m race during the Diamond League final in Zurich, Switzerland. With such momentum, Cheptegei is tipped to return with a medal from Doha.
Besides Cheptegei, Olympic gold medalist Stephen Kiprotich who returns to the team is also looked at for Uganda’s hope of medals in the marathon category.
Uganda will be represented by a contingent of 22 athletes who were officially flagged off by the National Council of Sports (NCS) on Tuesday, September 24 in Lugogo, Kampala.
Flagged off contingent
Men
1500m: Ronald Musagala
5000m: Oscar Chelimo, Stephen Kissa
10,000m: Joshua Cheptegei, Jacob Kiplimo, Abdallah Kibet Mande
Marathon: Stephen Kiprotich, Fred Musobo, Solomon Mutai
3000m Steeplechase: Albert Chemutai, Benjamin Kiplagat, Boniface Abel Sikowo
Women
400m: Leni Shida
800m: Halimah Nakaayi, Winnie Nanyondo
1500m: Esther Chebet, Winnie Nanyondo
5000m: Sarah Chelangat
10,000m: Rachael Zena Chebet, Juliet Chekwel, Stella Chesang
Marathon: Linet Toroitich Chebet
3000m Steeplechase: Peruth Chemutai