Ugandans took to Twitter in jubilation today morning as Jacob Kiplimo won the 2023 World Cross Country title in Bathurst, Australia.
Kiplimo, who had previously won gold in the Birmingham, put in a commanding performance in the grueling cross-country race, despite having held back during the first lap, while his Ugandan teammates Isaac Kibet, Samuel Kibet and Martin Kiprotich led the way.
He completed the 10-kilometer course in a time of 29 minutes and 17 seconds, beating out Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi who clocked nine seconds late, and former title holder Joshua Cheptegai by 20 seconds.
On Twitter, Ugandans shared their excitement about Kiplimo’s win as many praised Kiplimo’s talent and dedication, and expressed their pride in his achievement.
Among the many was also Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni through his known official Twitter page.
“Congratulations Jacob Kiplimo!” tweeted the country’s Speaker of Parliament @AnitahAmong. “We are a proud nation celebrating you back home. Keep flying our flag high.”
“Incase you missed it (i know there is alot going on, much of it nonsense), Jacob Kiplimo won a gold medal this morning at the World Cross Country Championships in Australia. Joshuacheptege1 won bronze. Cheptegei failed to defend his gold,but Uganda won’t be complaining. Well in” tweeted @PatrickKanyomozi, a popular critic of the ruling government.
Kiplimo’s win is a major accomplishment for Ugandan athletics, which has been gaining international recognition in recent years. He follows in the footsteps of other successful Ugandan runners, such as Joshua Cheptegei, who set a world record in the 10,000 meters in 2020.
As the celebrations continue on Twitter and throughout Uganda, Kiplimo’s win is a testament to the power of sport to unite people and inspire greatness.
Wow , you are great and indeed a down to earth person. All the best in your career profession