Cheptegei Happy With Bronze Medal in Copenhagen

World Athletics Road Running Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark - men’s half marathon
Andreas Almgren -58:06 (ER)
Nicholas Kipkorir - 58:11
Joshua Cheptegei - 58:26

Ugandan star Joshua Cheptegei says he is happy with his bronze medal after finishing third in the men’s half marathon at the World Athletics Road Running Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Cheptegei produced a strong performance to secure third place despite carrying a minor injury concern, with Sweden’s Andreas Almgren taking gold in a European record of 58:06. Kenya’s Nicholas Kipkorir finished second.

Speaking after the race, Cheptegei revealed that he had been managing an injury to his left foot in the build-up to the championships.

“During the race, I struggled a bit with my left foot, which I hurt 10 days ago, but I had good treatment and I only felt a little bit of pain during the race,” he explained.

Despite the discomfort, the Ugandan remained composed and managed to finish on the podium, giving Uganda a bronze medal on the world stage.

Cheptegei says the race was also an important step in his preparations for his next major challenge - the marathon.

“This race was part of my preparations towards the marathon in a few weeks’ time,” he added.

For Cheptegei, the Copenhagen outing was therefore more than just a medal-winning performance. It was also an opportunity to test his fitness and endurance as he continues his preparations for the marathon.

The bronze medal gives Ugandan athletics another podium finish at the World Athletics Road Running Championships Copenhagen, while Cheptegei now turns his attention to the marathon in the coming weeks.