On Sunday, Jacob Kiplimo made headlines once again by reclaiming the half marathon world record in Lisbon, clocking a remarkable time of 57 minutes and 20 seconds. This marks a significant achievement for the 25-year-old Ugandan athlete, who had previously set the record in November 2021 with a time of 57 minutes and 31 seconds. The record was briefly held by Ethiopian runner Yomif Kejelcha, who shaved off a second in a run in Valencia in October 2024, but Kiplimo's recent performance has reinstated him as the world record holder.

Kiplimo expressed his joy over this achievement, stating that he felt a possibility of breaking the record after the ten-kilometer mark. His strategy involved pushing his pace during the final kilometers of the race, which ultimately led him to victory. Interestingly, while he had previously completed a distance of 56 minutes and 42 seconds in Barcelona in February 2025, that time could not be certified as a world record due to the use of a pacing vehicle during the run.

His victory in Lisbon not only highlights his exceptional talent and endurance but also reinforces Uganda's growing reputation in long-distance running on the global stage. Kiplimo’s determination and performance are inspiring, and as he continues to break records, he sets a precedent for aspiring athletes in Uganda and beyond, showcasing the potential for excellence in sports.