As the cross-country season of 2024 wraps up, Uganda’s athletes stood out, delivering exceptional performances on the global stage.
Jacob Kiplimo and Oscar Chelimo were the key figures for Uganda, marking another stellar year for the East African nation in long-distance running.
Jacob Kiplimo successfully defended his senior men’s title at the World Cross Country Championships in Belgrade, clocking an impressive 28:09.
His victory not only made him a three-time world cross-country champion but also placed him among the elite group of men to win consecutive titles, joining legends like Kenenisa Bekele and Paul Tergat.
Kiplimo’s dominance ensured Uganda remained a force in the discipline, with his teammate Oscar Chelimo securing a commendable fifth place in the World Athletics rankings.
Uganda finished second overall in the team standings at the World Cross Country Championships, behind Kenya and ahead of Ethiopia.
Ugandan runners also made an impact on the World Cross Country Tour, with Keneth Kiprop claiming a Gold level meeting win.
In the women’s category, Uganda’s Sarah Chelangat had a standout year, ranking fourth in the World Athletics standings.
Chelangat’s consistency kept Uganda in contention among traditional powerhouses like Kenya and Ethiopia. While the team narrowly missed a podium finish at the World Cross Country Championships, the performances showcased a promising future for Uganda’s female athletes.
