Ugandan long-distance runner, Jacob Kiplimo has etched his name further into athletics history, shattering the 15km world record at the NN Zevenheuvelenloop (Seven Hills Race) in Nijmegen, Netherlands, on Sunday, November 17.
The athlete clocked an astonishing 40:42, eclipsing his previous mark of 41:05, which he had shared with compatriot Joshua Cheptegei since 2018.
Kiplimo’s feat shaved 23 seconds off his own course record in a race that featured fierce competition, including his half-brother and marathon world champion, Victor Kiplangat.
The loaded field, coupled with challenging conditions, pushed Kiplimo to deliver one of the finest performances of his career.
The 24-year-old surged ahead early, crossing the 5km mark in 13:44 and the 10km mark in 27:15—34 seconds faster than his pace last year.
His relentless pace widened the gap to two minutes ahead of the chase pack, leaving no doubt about his dominance.
“I came determined to break the record, and I’m thrilled with this achievement,” Kiplimo said after the race.
The athlete’s triumph marks the eighth consecutive year that a Ugandan has won the men’s title at this prestigious race, solidifying the nation’s dominance on the global athletics stage.
Mike Foppen of the Netherlands finished second in 43:19, while Britain’s Marc Scott secured third place in 43:21.
In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Mizan Alem delivered an impressive road-racing debut, clinching victory in 46:51.
Alem overtook early leader Diane van Es of the Netherlands at the 3.5km mark and never looked back, finishing a full minute ahead of her rival.
