Jacob Kiplimo secures victory in Valencia

Kiplimo’s time placed him fifth on the world all-time list, but he came short of beating Rhonex Kipruto’s world record of 26:24.

World Marathon record-holder Jacob Kiplimo clinched victory in the 10-kilometer Valencia Ibercaja Road Race on Sunday to start 2024 on a high note.

The Ugandan long-distance race multiple champions ran at 26:48 to secure the victory on the day.

The World Cross-country champion was followed by Bahrain’s Balew Birhanu (26:58), while Kenya’s Peter Mwaniki Aila came third in 26:59.

In a dominant run, Kiplimo started the race on the front foot and maintained pole position throughout.

He managed to cover the first 5 kilometres in 13:30 before eventually securing a career-best time.

Kiplimo’s time placed him fifth on the world all-time list, but he came short of beating Rhonex Kipruto’s world record of 26:24.

Meanwhile, his compatriot athlete, Rogers Kibet, secured the 8th position with a time of 27:15.

In the ladies race, Joy Cheptoyek finished 5th, finishing at 30 minutes and 12 seconds. Kenyan Agnes Chebet emerged as the winner with a world record of 28:46.