Uganda’s world 5000m record-holder Joshua Cheptegei earlier this week safely landed in Valencia, Spain ahead of his participation the NN Valencia World Record Day at the Turia Stadium.
The event which is slated for tomorrow, Wednesday holds another stunning chapter for Cheptegei as he will be aiming at the world 10,000m record.
The talented 22-year-old is in strong form as he last month broke Kenenisa Bekele’s world 5000m record after posting 12:51.78 in the Diamond League, Monaco.
Cheptegei is the reigning 10,000m world champion with his personal best being at 26:58.01. He is now eyeing Bekele’s 15-year-old world 10,000m record of 26:17.53 that he set in Brussels.
“I am very excited to be given the opportunity to target the 10,000m world record. As my performance in Monaco showed, I am in outstanding form, so I would like to make the most of my current shape by attacking the 10,000m world record,” Cheptegei said.
His coach Addy Ruiter is confident that Chepetegei can land the milestone.
“Remember, his (Cheptegei) desire is to be the best runner ever. Joshua will be the athlete to bring distance running to a new level. He will set the new standard,” said Addy Ruiter.