Uganda Wildlife Authority Athletics Club has expressed disappointment after World Athletics declined to ratify Jacob Kiplimo’s 56:42 performance at the Barcelona Half Marathon as a half marathon world record.
The global governing body cited concerns that the Ugandan runner may have gained an advantage by running close to the lead pace car, ruling that the mark would not be recognised officially.
The decision means Yomif Kejelcha retains the official record of 57:30 set at the Valencia Half Marathon.
Race assessments indicated Kiplimo stayed roughly 10 to 20 metres behind the vehicle displaying the race clock for much of the event, which World Athletics judged as a potential competitive aid.
Speaking during the 13th edition of the Source of the Nile Half Marathon, UWA coach Rafael Kasajja Amude backed the athlete’s resilience and future prospects.
“As an athlete, I understand what he is going through. Athletes invest a lot of time, effort and resources to reach the top. Breaking a world record is not easy. Sometimes mistakes beyond the athlete’s control can affect the outcome, but Kiplimo is very talented and is now concentrating on defending his title,” says Kasajja.
Attention now shifts to the London Marathon scheduled for April 26, where Kiplimo is expected to defend his title despite the setback.
The ruling has drawn criticism from several Ugandan athletics stakeholders who argue the decision undermines what they consider a remarkable run, though the official record books remain unchanged.
