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However, as the 2023 World Athletics Championships approach in Budapest, Cheptegei is hinting at closing a chapter of his illustrious career.
Uganda's shining star, Joshua Cheptegei, has been a beacon of excellence on the athletics track, amassing accolades that athletes dream of.
However, as the 2023 World Athletics Championships approach in Budapest, Cheptegei is hinting at closing a chapter of his illustrious career.
The reigning 10,000m world champion has indicated that this championship might mark his farewell to track events, as he contemplates transitioning to marathons.
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10:28 - 17.08.2023
FOOTBALL Vipers, Sundowns friendly rescheduled
Initially scheduled for this Wednesday [August 16], the high-profile encounter had to be deferred owing to unforeseen complications with visa acquisitions for Vipers.
An Illustrious Legacy
Participating in his fifth World Athletics Championship, Cheptegei who has recently indicated that he was considering a switch to road running dropped the news.
But for Cheptegei, it's not just about personal milestones. He holds a passion for fostering the next wave of Ugandan athletes, a testament to his holistic vision for the sport in his nation.
“Most importantly this may be my last championship on the track,” he told the gathering of media and teammates as the team was flagged off on Wednesday.
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“It is for the future of the country, for continuity to have new people coming in with new techniques so that they win medals for the country," he shared.
His career portfolio reads like a dream: two-time 10,000m World champion in 2019 and 2022, World silver medalist from 2017, the 2019 World Cross Country champion, and the reigning 10,000m and 5000m world record holder.
And if that's not impressive enough, he's also the reigning Olympic champion in the 5000 metres and silver medallist for the 10,000 metres.
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20:57 - 16.08.2023
ATHLETICS 2023 World Athletics Champs: Top six athletes set for world titles in Budapest
The 2023 World Athletics Championships, slated for August 19-27, 2023, will bring together more than 2,000 athletes from 200 countries with the ultimate prize and history up for grabs.
After sweeping victories in Oregon in 2022, his eyes are set on Budapest, but the distant horizon of Paris 2024 could be out of reach for him.
Challengers Eyeing Cheptegei's Crown
Even as Cheptegei contemplates his track swansong, contenders are lining up to challenge his dominance, especially in the 10,000m event.
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20:03 - 16.08.2023
ATHLETICS Uganda's stellar athlete line-up heads to Budapest
All eyes, especially those in Uganda, will be on Team Uganda, waiting for moments of magic and perhaps a new chapter in their nation's athletic history.
The absence of Jacob Kiplimo sets the stage for an electrifying race. Ethiopian Berihu Aregawi is touted as a significant contender.
After a notable performance in the 2021 Olympics, Aregawi has been in scorching form in 2023.
Meanwhile, Selemon Barega, the one who bested Cheptegei at the Tokyo Olympics, remains a threat despite a less spectacular year.
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On the Kenyan front, silver medallist from Eugene, Stanley Mburu, and Kenyan trials winner, Nicholas Kipkorir, bolster the challenge.
Team Uganda's Quest in Budapest
As Cheptegei readies for his dual challenge in the 10,000-meter and 5,000-meter events, Team Uganda embarks on its Budapest journey with high hopes.
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13:05 - 15.08.2023
ATHLETICS The exciting changes at the Budapest World Championships you should know
On the other side of the track, a dedicated 'Q Room' is set up for sprinters and hurdlers. A place where athletes can view ongoing races, relax, and even interact with their coaches.
The team, comprising 21 elite athletes, received a ceremonial send-off at Copper Chimney in Lugogo.
Expressing satisfaction at the preparations, Coach Benjamin Njia said, "Our team's preparations have been proceeding smoothly.”
“We are optimistic about our performance and aspire to secure more medals in Budapest."
The world awaits with bated breath as the Ugandan contingent, led by the indomitable Cheptegei, sets its sights on global athletic dominance.
The Championships, running from the 19th to the 27th of this month in Budapest, promise electrifying performances, lasting memories, and perhaps, the end of an era.
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