The 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games are well underway and Uganda already has one medal. Thanks to Victor Kiplangant for the gold in the men’s marathon.
However, it doesn’t feel quite the same as Uganda’s best medal bet, Joshua Cheptegei, will not be competing.
Cheptegei is the defending champion of both the 10,000 and 5,000 metre at the Commonwealth Games and was scheduled to compete in the 5,000-metre race that will be held on August 6, 2022.
According to a statement issued by Cheptegei, he has opted out of the competition to allow his body to recover.
Cheptegei’s statement in part reads, “Since the 10000m gold achievement at the Worlds, my body has demanded and requires some rest and recovery if I am to embark on future prospects.”
He, however, believes that Jacob Kiplimo is well suited to fly Uganda’s very high at the event.
“I have great belief in my brother Jacob Kiplimo and all teammates assembled to represent and do the job required of them for our nation,” he said.
Kiplimo, who won bronze at the just concluded 2022 World Athletics Championships, will be in action this evening for the 10,000m race.
The Olympic bronze medalist will be back in action on August 6 for the 5,000-meter distance.