20 October 2024 | Athletics

Ugandan long-distance runner Joshua Cheptegei won the Delhi Half Marathon 2024 men’s elite title.

Cheptegei who retired from the track after claiming the 10000m Olympic title clocked 59:46 to finish ahead of Kenyan duo Alex Matata (59:53) and Nicholas Kipkorir (59:59).

It's the first half-marathon win for Cheptegei and he termed it as special.

"This win in Delhi was special to me because it is my first-ever victory in a half marathon," said Cheptegei. "India has been important for my career and this country now means a lot to me. I felt good throughout the race despite the slow start," he added.

Matata led for most of the race alongside compatriot Kipkorir with Cheptegei running just behind the two. The Ugandan, however, made a decisive move in the final stretch to secure the win.

"My first aim was to catch up with Nicholas [Kipkorir] and then Alex [Matata] in the final few kilometres of the race. I am delighted with my performance and hope to continue in the same manner in the future races," Cheptegei said.

With victory, Cheptegei takes home a cash prize of $27,000.

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