Uganda’s Multiple World Record Holder Joshua Cheptegei has revealed that he was forced to take up running while still in high school.
Cheptegei, who was a student at MM College Wairaka, recalled how his head teacher (Lyadda Apollo) and pressured him to follow in the footsteps of his brother, Stephen Kiprotich, who had won a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics.
“I was the only Sebei at the School, and I was in Senior five, then the teacher told me, ‘Your brother won a gold medal in the Olympics, and you’re just here, why don’t you run?’” Cheptegei remembered. “They forced me, and the rest is history.”
Cheptegei credits the teacher for pushing him to discover his potential. “I am yet to go back to that head teacher and thank him,” he said. “He pushed me to discover the potential that I had.”
Joshua Cheptegei won Gold in 5000m (Tokyo Olympics) and 10,000m (Paris Olympics)
Cheptegei’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable, with numerous accolades including being the current world record holder for the 5000 metres and the 10,000 metres.
Cheptegei Calls for Investment in Young Athletes
Cheptegei, speaking at the Olympics welcoming dinner by Uganda Police at Protea Hotel, shared his vision for the future of athletics in Uganda.
He emphasized the importance of identifying and nurturing young talent, citing the Western world’s approach of guiding children towards their future careers from as early as three years old.
Cheptegei, who is transitioning from track to marathon running, expressed his desire to see continuity in Uganda’s athletic success.
He proposed recruiting young boys and girls to ensure sustained excellence.
The Olympic medalist also acknowledged the support of the Uganda Police Force, thanking them for providing a double cabin vehicle that has facilitated training.
However, he appealed for the promised coaster bus, which would greatly benefit the team’s transportation needs.
Cheptegei praised the Police Force for providing a platform for athletes to showcase their talent while serving.
He noted that all Olympic gold medals won by Ugandan athletes have come from the Police Force, attributing this success to the excellence established by pioneers like John Aki-bua.
He expressed his gratitude, saying, “We are privileged to be part of the Uganda Police Force, and we hope to continue excelling, inspiring young athletes in Kapchorwa and beyond to join the force and emulate our success.”
Uganda won two medals at the concluded Paris Olympics – Cheptegei clinched gold in 10,000m while Peruth Chemutai settled for silver in Women’s 3000m Steeplechase.
Uganda Police Force Celebrates Olympic Success
Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) James Ochaya praised the team, comprising Ugandan officers, for their magnificent representation and exceptional achievements.
“The Paris Olympics was another event where the Uganda flag was held high thanks to the magnificent representation from our team,” DIGP Ochaya said.
“Athletes like ASP Joshua Cheptegei, Inspector Peruth Chemutai, ASP Stella Chesang, Inspector Mercyline Chelangat, Victor Kiplangat, and Martin Kiprotich have made us proud.”
DIGP James Ochaya (middle) with Cheptegei and Chemutai
Ochaya emphasized that the accolades won by the athletes are not just medals but symbols of perseverance, sacrifice, discipline, and excellence that reflect the very best of the Uganda Police Force.
“The gold medal, which represents the pinnacle of athletics achievement, is a testimony to the relentless effort, determination, and dedication of our athletes,” he noted.
DIGP Ochaya encouraged all to draw inspiration from the incredible achievements of Cheptegei, Chemutai, and the entire Olympic team, emphasizing that the recognition is not just for individual achievement but for collective effort, teamwork, and unity.
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