Uganda’s long-distance running star Joshua Cheptegei has extended his impressive road-running form after winning the Tata Steel World 25 Kilometre Race held in Kolkata, India, on Sunday the 21st.
Cheptegei, the world record holder in the 5,000 metres and 10,000 metres, clocked 1:11:49 to claim the men’s title. He outpaced reigning world marathon champion Alphonce Simbu of Tanzania, who finished second in 1:11:56, while Tebello Ramakongoana of Lesotho completed the podium in 1:11:59.
The double Olympic and world champion said the win is a major boost as he continues preparations toward his long-term ambition of excelling in the marathon.
“This victory gives me confidence for my next marathon. I am chasing my dream, which is to run a better time in the marathon, and that is why I have chosen to run more challenging road races,” Cheptegei said.
The race, which started before dawn, saw Cheptegei remain composed among the leading pack before making a decisive move in the final stages to secure victory in what he often describes as his “second home.”
In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Degitu Azimeraw emerged victorious after clocking 1:19:36, denying compatriot Sutume Kebede a third straight title. Kebede finished second in 1:20:28, while Meselech Alemayehu, also from Ethiopia, came third in 1:20:48.
The win marked Azimeraw’s return to the top after eight years.The Tata Steel World 25 Kilometre Race is one of Asia’s most prestigious road-running events and holds a World Athletics Global Label, attracting elite athletes from around the world and offering valuable world ranking points.
In recent years, Uganda has cemented its status as a global powerhouse in long-distance running, with the high-altitude region of Kapchorwa producing athletes who continue to shine on the international stage.
As Cheptegei pushes on with his road-racing campaign, expectations remain high that his strong performance will serve as a key steppingstone toward major marathon championships in the coming season.
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