Chesang, Kiprop, and Chebet Lead Global Ugandan Athletics Sweep

Ugandan athletes have continued to make their mark on the international stage, claiming multiple podium finishes in road races and cross-country events across Europe and Asia.

Chesang Wins Osaka Marathon

On Sunday morning, Uganda’s Stella Chesang won the 2026 Osaka International Women’s Marathon in Japan, clocking a world-leading time of 2:19:31 to take gold. Ethiopian runners Bedatu Hirpa and Workenesh Edesa finished second and third, posting season-best times of 2:19:54 and 2:19:56, respectively.

The victory adds to Chesang’s growing reputation as one of the world’s top marathoners and highlights Uganda’s strength in long-distance running.

Chelimo Claims Silver in Italy

In Europe, Uganda’s Dolphine Chelimo clinched silver in the men’s senior race at the Campaccio Cross Country Tour in Italy. Burundi’s Egide Ntakarutimana took first place in 30:38, with Chelimo finishing just seven seconds behind at 30:45, while Ntakarutimana’s compatriot Celestin Ndikumana also clocked 30:45 to round out the podium.

Uganda Sweeps Spanish 10K Podiums

Uganda also secured a strong showing at the Villafranca del Penedes 10K in Spain. Abel Chebet led a 1-2 finish in the men’s category, winning in 29:05 ahead of compatriot Eliud Cherop, who finished in 29:24. Moroccan runner Abde Oukhelfen took third place in 29:33.

In the women’s race, Angeline Chelimo claimed second place with a time of 34:38, behind Spain’s Meritxell Soler, who won in 33:42, while Gisela Carrión of Spain finished third in 35:39.

Kiprop Triumphs in Belgium

Uganda’s Keneth Kiprop captured victory at the Hannut Cross Country Cup 8K race in Belgium, posting a time of 24:21. Ethiopian Saymon Amanuel and Belgian Bastien Augusto finished second and third, clocking 24:33 and 24:45, respectively.

In the women’s race, Charity Cherop took third with 27:51, following Jana Van Lent (27:30) and Sheila Jebet (27:46), rounding off another strong international performance by Ugandan runners.

These results underscore Uganda’s continued dominance in distance running, with athletes performing at the highest level across marathons, road races, and cross-country events worldwide.