Police Inspector General, Martin Okoth Ochola hailed long distance runner Joshua Cheptegei for retaining the gold medal in the men’s 10,000m in Oregon.
The Inspector General of police, Martin Okoth Ochola has hailed long distance runner Joshua Cheptegei for continuing to raise the country’s flag high when he retained the men’s world 10,000m gold medal in Oregon, on Sunday.
Cheptegei, who holds the position as the Assistant Superintendent of Police is also the world record holder in the 10,000m distance and yet again led for large periods of the race before registering a winning time of 27min 27.43sec.
Kenya’s Stanley Waithaka Mburu claimed silver in 27:27.90, with another Ugandan, Jacob Kiplimo, taking bronze (27:27.97) in an unusually close finish.
In a message congratulating the athletes, Ochola described Cheptegei as an embodiment of excellence who continues to represent the country well at the world stage. He said in the history books, he becomes the most decorated athlete from the Uganda police.
“As you raced towards the finishing line, you were filled with skill, determination and hard work, amidst a very competitive team of athletes. You are now an embodiment of excellence and I am incredibly proud of you, for earning the Uganda Police and the country, a gold medal,” Ochola said.
“From the Uganda Police Force records, you are now in the history books as the most decorated athlete, which is not only an historic accomplishment, but an inspiration to Ugandans of all walks of life. You represent the best of Uganda and the Police. I look forward to welcoming you home and celebrate with you.”
Ochola however, also commended other athletes including Jacob Kiplimo and Stephen Kiisa, for the tactical approach and cooperation that led to the successive victory.
Meanwhile, in an interview with journalists shortly after his maiden victory, Cheptegei said despite a few challenges including the weather, he managed to maintain to win the race.
“I did not aim to run really fast because of the heat, the sun was very strong.The conditions were kind of challenging. You just have to enjoy the race and see how it is going. Then it was going good,” Cheptegei said.
“I knew that if I get into the last fight, I can control it and I could speed it up. I was able to get stronger and keep it faster and faster,” he added.
