KAMPALA, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Joshua Kiprui Cheptegei said he was pleased to open his 2026 season with a victory in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates.
The Ugandan won the Burj2Burj Half Marathon on Sunday, clocking 59 minutes and 26 seconds to complete the 21km race.
Kenya's Nicholas Kipkorir finished second, while Tanzania's Alphonce Felix Simbu placed third.
"I am very happy that I have started the new season by winning a half marathon race in Dubai. This is a good start as I continue to prepare for the London Marathon in March," Cheptegei told Xinhua.
In December 2025, the 5,000m and 10,000m record holder also won the Tata Steel Kolkata Road Race in India.
"I am very happy competing in half marathon races because they are also helping me improve on my speed as I prepare for marathon races," added the two-time Olympic gold medalist.
Dominic Otuchet, president of Uganda Athletics, told Xinhua on Monday that he is confident Cheptegei and Jacob Kiplimo will shine at the London Marathon.
"We are very excited seeing our athletes perform well in the recent races as they prepare for the London Marathon," added Otuchet. ■
