Ugandan runner Oscar Chelimo secured a podium finish at the Campaccio, a World Athletics Cross Country Tour Gold event in San Giorgio su Legnano on Monday, January 6.
Chelimo, the 2022 World Championships 5000m bronze medallist, showcased his endurance and skill on the muddy 10km course to claim third place in 32:09.
The men’s race was dominated by Ethiopia’s Telahun Haile Bekele, who surged ahead during the final 2km loop to finish in 31:32, followed by Burundi’s Celestin Ndikumana in 31:50.
Chelimo remained composed in the challenging conditions, maintaining his pace to finish just 19 seconds behind Ndikumana and improve upon his runner-up finish in last year’s edition.
Despite the wet and technical nature of the course, Chelimo demonstrated resilience, positioning himself among the race’s top contenders early on.
With his eyes set on upcoming races, Chelimo continues to cement his status as one of Uganda’s premier long-distance athletes.
His success at Campaccio serves as an encouraging sign for Uganda’s athletic prospects in 2025.
