By URN
Uganda’s Long-distance runner Jacob Kiplimo on Sunday won the Atapuerca cross country which was held at Atapuerca Municipality in Spain.
The reigning 2023 World Cross country Champion, in a formidable race secured the 9km race victory in 26 minutes and 00 seconds.
He was followed by Ronald Kwemoi from Kenya who crossed the finishing line in 26 minutes and 15 seconds while Burundi’s Rodrigue Kwizera, came third in 26 minutes and 16 seconds.
Kiplimo increased his pace half way through the penultimate lap, which he covered in 5:40 seconds and immediately opened up a gap on his rivals. At the bell, the 22-year-old had a lead of 13 seconds ahead of Kwemoi and Kwizera. With a last lap of 5:38 seconds, Kiplimo extended his lead and finally won by 15 seconds.
“I am happy I have come back strong after battling an hamstring injury which made me miss the recent concluded world Championships, but I now feel okay because even after the race I dint feel any pain,” said Kiplimo.
Meanwhile, Uganda’s Sarah Chelangat came second in the 8km women’s category after crossing the finishing line in 25minutes and 36 seconds. The race was won by Kenya’s Beatrice who crossed the finishing line at 25 minutes, 21 seconds.
Peter Chelangat, Kiplimo’s Ugandan coach attributes the great performance from Kiplimo to handwork and patience. “If Kiplimo wasn’t a patient athlete, he would lose hope in sport especially when he got injured few days to the recent World Championships. However he kept his hopes high that he will come back strong which he did in Spain,” said Chelangat.
