Joshua Cheptegei becomes the most successful track athlete in East Africa
August 21, 2023
Ugandan long distance runner Joshua Cheptegei won his third straight gold medal in the 10,000m in the World Championship in Budapest.
The Olympic gold medalist put up a scintillating last lap performance as he took a 57 seconds lead. He eventually registered a time of 27:51.42.
Kenyan Daniel Simiu Ebenyo and Ethiopian Selemon Barega came in 2nd and 3rd winning silver and bronze medals respectively.
It should be noted that the Ugandan hasn’t participated in over 25 laps for the past 3 years. His past one year has also been filled with injuries.
He took to his social media pages to express how he was so excited at this history making feat.
“GOLD. I’m very excited and proud that I have succeeded in winning my third world title in a row. This was the best possible way to end the season. I’m so proud that I have an amazing team around me and with our work together we have made it possible to win for the third time. And for the fans, thank you so much for the support,” said Cheptegei via his Instagram page.
He’s the current record holder of both the 5000m and 10,000m. This win equalled him with another track field legend, Mo Farah from Great Britain.
Both of them have won the medal 3 times and are one behind the all time greats, Ethiopian duo Haile Gebrselassie and Kenenisa Bekele.
These have won it a record 4 times. Cheptegei will bow be competing in the 5000m alongside fellow Ugandan, Oscar Chelimo.