Team Uganda returned home to a warm welcome at Entebbe International Airport early on Monday 1st April, following their commendable performance at the World Cross Country Championships held in Belgrade, Serbia on March 30th, 2024.
Despite tough competition from powerhouses Kenya and Ethiopia, Team Uganda showcased remarkable prowess, securing notable achievements across various categories.
Jacob Kiplimo retained his senior World Cross Country title, crossing the finish line in an impressive time of 28 minutes and 9 seconds. However, it was not just Kiplimo who left his mark; Joshua Cheptegei, the 2019 winner, may have finished sixth, but his contribution added depth to Uganda’s stellar performance.
The U20 events were equally electrifying, with Uganda clinching team bronze in both the men’s and women’s categories. Nowel Cheruto, Charity Cherop, Keziah Chebet, Vicky Chekwemboi, and Isella Chebet showcased exceptional talent in the women’s 6KM race, while Simba Samuel Cherop, Dolphine Chelimo, Sailas Rotich, Hosea Chemutai, and Titus Musau demonstrated outstanding skill in the men’s 8KM race.
In the Senior Women’s 10KM event, Uganda secured yet another bronze, thanks to the stellar performances of Sarah Chelangat, Loice Chekwemoi, Rachel Zena Chebet, Annet Chelangat, Joy Cheptoyek, and Bellinda Chemutai.
The Senior Men’s 10KM race witnessed Uganda’s crowning achievement, as the team clinched the silver medal. Dan Kibet, Hosea Kiplangany, Martin Kiprotich, and Leonard Chemutai delivered commendable performances, complementing Kiplimo’s gold-winning run and Cheptegei’s commendable sixth-place finish.
Team Uganda will kick off preparations for the Summer Olympics in Paris.
