Loice Chekwemoi wins silver at U20 World Athletics Championships

Loice Chekwemoi brought pride to Uganda by securing a silver medal in the 3000m steeplechase at the Under-20 World Athletics Championship in Lima, Peru on Friday.

The 17-year-old athlete posted a personal best time of 9:18.84, marking a significant milestone in her blossoming career. 

The race was highly competitive, with Ethiopia's Sembo Almayew clinching the gold medal in a remarkable time of 9:12.71. Kenya's Diana Chekwemoi followed closely behind Loice, earning the bronze medal at 9:28.84. Nancy Chepkwuru, another promising Ugandan athlete, finished fifth in the event. 

Chekwemoi's silver medal is Uganda's third at the championship, underscoring the country's growing reputation in the athletics world. Her success in Lima adds to an impressive resume; she is the reigning African champion in the 3000m steeplechase and a bronze medalist (women's team) at the 2024 World Cross Country Championship. 

Despite her young age, Chekwemoi's achievements on both the international and continental stages highlight her potential to become one of Uganda's most successful athletes. With proper guidance and support, she could continue to excel and make history for her nation. 

Other Ugandan athletes competed in the finals, with Titus Musau and Herbert Kibet representing the country in the 3000m race. Kibet finished fifth with a time of 8:21.54, while Musau ended up in 12th place, clocking in at 8:26.16. 

Uganda's performance at the championship has been commendable, with the team already surpassing its previous showing at the 2022 event in Cali, where Prisca Chesang secured the only medal, a bronze. Team coach Joshua Kibet expressed his satisfaction with the results, stating that the future of these young athletes is bright and full of potential.