Uganda's Olympic hopeful Jacob Kiplimo recounts car crash, vows to bounce back

©Imago

Uganda's Olympic hopeful Jacob Kiplimo recounts car crash, vows to bounce back

Festus Chuma 10:29 - 05.04.2024

Jacob Kiplimo has recounted surviving a car crash in Uganda after winning his third World Cross Country Championship

Double World Athletics Cross Country Champion Jacob Kiplimo has shared his experiences of a severe car accident that occurred just days after clinching his third title at the World Cross Country Championships in Belgrade. 

The 23-year-old Ugandan long-distance runner, who emerged victorious last weekend, was involved in a mishap that led him to the hospital with minor injuries.

 Despite the scare, Kiplimo has reassured fans and followers of his well-being and readiness to continue his preparations for the upcoming Paris Olympics.

"I’ve read a lot of messages and posts about my accident occurred yesterday (Wednesday) while heading to my home village.I was driving on a rough muddy road when the car swerved off. I would like to reassure everyone that I’m ok and I did not face any consequences," Kiplimo disclosed through a heartfelt message. 

Kiplimo's accident happened in Kween District, Eastern Uganda, as he was en route to his home village.

Following the incident, he was swiftly taken to Kapchorwa for medical evaluation and treatment, where he reportedly sustained minor injuries. 

Despite the ordeal, Kiplimo remained undeterred, emphasizing his recovery and the continuation of his training regime.

 "This morning I trained with my camp teammates in Kapchorwa. Thanks, everyone for your thoughts. Drive safely and always pay attention," he concluded.

The incident has sparked concerns among fans and the athletics community regarding Kiplimo’s participation in the Paris Olympics this summer, where he is considered a top contender for gold in both the men’s 5,000m and 10,000m events. 

Kiplimo, a bronze medalist at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in the men’s 10,000m, had showcased his formidable talent in Belgrade, outpacing rivals such as Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi and Kenya’s Benson Kiplangat, along with his compatriot Joshua Cheptegei.

Kiplimo's accident comes in the wake of the tragic death of men’s marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum who passed away following a road accident in Eldoret.

Follow us on X (Twitter) for more updates.