Uganda’s long-distance running icon, Joshua Cheptegei, has officially secured his qualification for the 2025 World Athletics Championships after an impressive performance at the Tokyo Marathon.
Cheptegei clocked a time of 2:05:59, finishing ninth in a highly competitive field. This marks a significant milestone in his transition to marathon racing, having previously dominated the track events.
Meanwhile, fellow Ugandan Stephen Kissa finished in 25th place with a time of 2:09:34.
Though Kissa fell short of qualification in this particular race, he had already booked his spot for the 2025 World Championships after recording a time of 2:06:22 at the Osaka Marathon on February 25, 2024.
The Uganda Athletics Federation commended both athletes for their dedication and performance in one of the world’s premier marathon events.
Ethiopia’s Tadese Takele clinches first major marathon victory
The Tokyo Marathon, a World Athletics Platinum Label road race, saw Ethiopia’s Tadese Takele clinch his first major marathon victory, crossing the finish line in a world-leading 2:03:23.
Takele’s compatriot Deresa Geleta finished second in 2:03:51, while Kenya’s Vincent Kipkemoi secured third place with a time of 2:04:00.
In the women’s category, Ethiopia’s Sutume Kebede successfully defended her title, finishing in 2:16:31. Kenya’s Winfridah Moraa Moseti claimed second place with a personal best of 2:16:56, while Ethiopia’s Hawi Feysa finished third in 2:17:00.
The race, which started in near-perfect marathon conditions, saw intense early pacing. The men’s lead group, which included defending champion Benson Kipruto, stayed close together in the early stages.
However, as the race progressed, Takele, Kipkemoi, and Geleta broke away by the 30km mark. Takele made his decisive move at around the 38km point, surging ahead to secure victory.
For Uganda’s Cheptegei, this marathon performance marks a promising step in his transition from track to road racing. Despite not contesting for the podium, his steady progress in long-distance road running is a strong indicator of what lies ahead.
His compatriot Kissa also showed resilience, taking charge of the chase pack at one point before ultimately settling for 25th place.