Summary:

• Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo won the 10-kilometer Valencia Ibercaja Road Race in Spain, securing victory in 26 minutes and 53 seconds. He dominated the race, leading throughout and expressing optimism for the year ahead.

Jacob Kiplimo, the long-distance runner from Uganda, emerged victorious in the 10-kilometer Valencia Ibercaja Road Race held in the renowned Spanish City on Sunday.

In a formidable display, the current World Cross Country Champion of 2023 clinched the 10-kilometer road race, completing it in an impressive time of 26 minutes and 53 seconds.

Balew Birhanu from Bahrain secured the second position, crossing the finish line in 26 minutes and 59 seconds, while Peter Mwaniki Aila of Kenya claimed the third spot with a time of 27 minutes and 0 seconds.

Maintaining his dominance throughout the race, Kiplimo, the world record holder, covered the first 5 kilometers in a swift 13 minutes and 30 seconds. He widened the gap between himself and his rival, Denis Kibet, extending his lead until the final stretch.

Reflecting on his performance, Kiplimo expressed satisfaction, stating, “It’s a good start for 2024, and I look forward to advancing in my training to achieve this year’s mission of shining, especially in major Athletics events such as the World Cross Country and Olympics.”

In the race, another talented Ugandan athlete, Rogers Kibet, secured the 8th position, completing the course in 27 minutes and 35 seconds. In the women’s category, Joy Cheptoyek finished 5th, crossing the finish line in 30 minutes and 12 seconds, with the race being won by Kenya’s Agnes Chebet.

Njia Benjamin, the vice president of technical at Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF), hailed the outstanding performance of the Ugandan athletes at the event, considering it a promising start for Team Uganda in the upcoming season.