Jacob Kiplimo Breaks World Half Marathon Record

 Kampala    
On Sunday, Uganda’s long-distance running sensation, Jacob Kiplimo, made history by breaking the world record in the half marathon at the World Half Marathon Championships in Barcelona, Spain.  

Kiplimo shattered the previous record of 57 minutes and 30 seconds, held by Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha, by finishing the race in an astonishing 56 minutes and 42 seconds. This remarkable achievement has cemented his place among the world’s elite athletes.  
In his post-race remarks, Kiplimo expressed gratitude to everyone who supported him on his journey to this historic victory. He also hinted at his next challenge, the London Marathon, scheduled for April 27. Uganda has a proud history in marathon running, with Stephen Kiprotich winning gold at the 2012 London Olympics, and Kiplimo aims to continue this legacy.  
As the sport of athletics celebrates 100 years under the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), Kiplimo’s achievements add to the rich history of Ugandan excellence in long-distance running.  
Dominic Otuchet, President of the Uganda Athletics Federation, praised Kiplimo for his dedication and urged him to remain focused and continue striving for greatness. Otuchet also called on the government to increase funding for athletics and requested national leaders to recognize Kiplimo’s contributions to the country.  
Kiplimo has been a consistent performer on the global stage since 2017 when he first made waves at the World Junior Championships. His accolades include winning gold at the World Cross Country Championships in Aarhus (2019), Bathurst (2023), and Belgrade (2024). He also claimed double gold in the 5000m and 10,000m at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, a bronze medal at the World Championships in Eugene, Oregon (USA), and another bronze at the Tokyo Olympics.  
With this latest record-breaking performance, Kiplimo has once again raised the Ugandan flag high, inspiring a new generation of athletes to aim for greatness.