By Nasser Kasozi Akandwanaho
The President of Uganda Gen Yoweri Museveni congratulated the new 5000M World record holder Inspector of Police Joshua Cheptegei.
IP Cheptegei broke the men’s 5000m World record with a stunning 12:35.36 at the Herculis Monaco Diamond League on Friday, August 14th 2020, shattering a 16 year record set by Ethiopian Kenenisa Bekele (12:35:36) in 2004.
In a tweet via his official personal handle, Museveni emphasized the essence of IP Cheptegei’s magnificent performance.
IP Cheptegei also hailed the supportive team that he worked with; staff, coach and the family support as he prepared for this race.
I think Monaco is a special place and it’s one of these places where I could break the world record. It took a lot of mind setting to keep being motivated this year because so many people are staying at home but you have to stay motivated.
I pushed myself; I had the right staff with me, the right coach. I’m also usually based in Europe, but being based in Uganda with my family was actually great. I will for sure celebrate the world record when I get home.
The first lady and Minister of education and sports on her official social media page said, Joshua Cheptegei, you have done it again. You have kept your promise to me and to Ugandans to win again. You have even gone ahead to break the World Record in 5,000m at the MonacoDl . We are immensely proud of you. Congratulations and keep it up.
IP Cheptegei thanked his working crew, family, President Museveni, Janet Museveni The first Lady and Minister of Education and Sports as well as the state minister Hamson Denis Obua, National council of sports and Uganda Olympic committee.
