Long-distance runners Joshua Cheptegei and Jacob Kiplimo are Uganda’s formidable medal contenders, set to carry the nation’s hopes in the upcoming 2023 World Athletics Championships. The duo is set to compete in both the 5000m and 10,000m events.
On Tuesday, the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) officially unveiled a 21-member squad that will represent the country at the championship, which starts on August 19 to 27, 2023 at the National Athletics Centre in Budapest, Hungary.
In the previous edition held in Eugen, Oregon, United States, Uganda’s contingent, comprising 17 athletes, delivered a commendable performance, securing the 16th position in the overall medal tally. The nation clinched three well-deserved medals, with Cheptegei dominating the 10,000m category to seize the gold. Meanwhile, Kiplimo claimed a bronze in the 10,000m, and Oscar Chelimo triumphed with a bronze in the 5000m.
With an expanded athlete roster this time around, the spotlight remains fixated on the dynamic duo of Cheptegei and Kiplimo, renowned for their remarkable achievements on numerous occasions.
Cheptegei, the reigning Olympic champion in the 5000 meters and a silver medalist in the 10,000 meters, is all set to replicate his exceptional feats in Budapest. He will vigorously compete in both the 5000m and 10,000m events, aiming to secure more accolades for his country.
Kiplimo, not only a world record holder in the half marathon but also the proud recipient of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic 10,000 meters bronze medal, continues to shine brightly. His remarkable achievements include clinching gold medals in both the 5000 meters and 10,000 meters events at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
In addition to Cheptegei and Kiplimo, Uganda’s medal aspirations also extend to other exceptional athletes. Victor Kiplangat, who clinched the Marathon gold at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, adds to the nation’s strong contingent. Halima Nakaayi, celebrated for her gold-winning performance in the 800m at the 2019 World Championships in Doha, will bring her experience to the arena. Peruth Chemutai, a Tokyo gold medalist in the 3000m Steeplechase, along with Winnie Nanyondo and Stella Chesang, further bolster Uganda’s prospects.
Team Uganda
Women – Halima Nakaayi (800m), Winnie Nanyondo (1500m), Peruth Chemutai (3000m SC), Sarah Chelangat (5000m & 10,000m), Prisca Chesang (5000m), Stella Chesang (10,000m), Doreen Chesang (Marathon), Rebecca Chepetegei (Marathon), Mercyline Chelangat (Marathon).
Men – Tarsis Orogot (200m), Tom Dradriga (800m), Salim Abu Mayanja (1500m), Leonard Chemutai (3000m SC), Oscar Chelimo (5000m), Joshua Cheptegei (5000m, 10,000m), Jacob Kiplimo (5000m, 10,000m), Rogers Kibet (10,000m), Joel Ayeko (10,000m), Stephen Kissa (Marathon), Victor Kiplangat (Marathon), Andrew Rotich Kwemoi (Marathon).