By URN
Ugandan long-distance runner Jacob Kiplimo set a new national record at the TCS London Marathon in the United Kingdom on Sunday, April 27th. Kiplimo, the reigning 21-kilometer World record holder, completed the 42km race in an impressive 2 hours, 03 minutes, and 37 seconds. This time smashed the previous national record of 2 hours, 04 minutes, and 48 seconds, held by Stephen Kissa.
Kiplimo’s performance earned him a ticket to the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, Japan, where he will join his stepbrother Victor Kiplangat, the defending World Marathon Champion. Despite finishing in second place behind Kenya’s Sebastian Sawe, who crossed the line in 2 hours, 02 minutes, and 27 seconds, Kiplimo’s achievement marks a significant milestone in his career.
“It’s a double blessing this season. I ran a world record a few months ago, and now a national record in my first 42km race,” Kiplimo said after the race., “My next focus is the World Championships, and I will feel happier when I have a good result there.” Meanwhile, in the women’s category, Uganda’s Stella Chesang secured 6th place with a time of 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 42 seconds. The race was won by Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa in 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 50 seconds, while Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei finished in second place.
Dominic Otuchet, President of the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF), congratulated both athletes, saying the team for the Tokyo World Championships will be strong. “We are safe every day, especially when it comes to the Marathon team,” Otuchet remarked.
Peter Chelangat, Kiplimo’s coach, also praised his athlete’s achievements and outlined a clear vision for his marathon career. “The vision is clear. Kiplimo shall be the first Ugandan athlete to run a sub-2-hour marathon,” said Chelangat. “He has already done it in the 21-kilometer race, and he will also attempt to achieve it in the 42-kilometer race in time.”
