Commonwealth Games: Gen Kainerugaba Hails Uganda's Golden Sporting Generation

Uganda's distance runner Jacob Kiplimo sealed Commonwealth Games doubles by winning the men's 5,000 metres and 10,000 metres at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

Kiplimo emulated compatriot Joshua Cheptegei in 2018 in achieving the distance double, timing 13min 08.08sec.

"It was a wonderful performance for me," said Kiplimo. "I have two (gold medals) and I'm so happy about it." 

In total, Uganda has registered five medals, three of these are gold and two bronze. This despite the absence of star marathoner Joshua Cheptegei who pulled out of the competitions due to injury.

Following the amazing performances by the Ugandans, the Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations and Commander Land Forces Lt Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has dubbed this a golden generation.

"Congratulations to Jacob Kiplimo on the amazing double gold at the #Birmingham2022. Like the enduring Victor Kiplangat in the marathon, the resolute Peruth Chemutai in Steeplechase, and the outstanding netball and Rugby teams, this is truly Uganda’s golden sporting generation!" Gen Kainerugaba who is a well-known sports enthusiast tweeted Sunday morning.

Before Kiplimo's second gold medal, Uganda’s long-distance runner Victor Kiplangat had won gold in the Men’s Marathon at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England. The 22-year-old who is best known for mountain running clocked 2 hours, 10 minutes, and 55 seconds to beat the field of runners.

Another Ugandan female runner, Peruth Chemutai recovered from a fall to win a bronze after finishing third in the women’s 3000m Steeplechase race at the 2022 Commonwealth Games at Alexander Stadium, Birmingham, United Kingdom.

Chemutai fell down, got injured but soldiered on to race to the end, finishing third to settle for bronze in the final on Day 8 of the games.