Keneth Kiprop strengthened his case as one of Uganda’s rising long-distance prospects after winning the men’s 5000 metres at the Fanny Blankers-Koen Games in Hengelo, Netherlands, on Sunday.
The 21-year-old produced a composed performance in hot conditions to beat a 19-man field in 13:13.43 at the FBK Stadium.
The victory came ahead of next month’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, where Kiprop is expected to test himself at senior level.
Kiprop has gradually emerged as one of the athletes being developed under coach Addy Ruiter following Joshua Cheptegei’s long-distance dominance.
Although injuries have slowed his progress, Kiprop has remained patient and focused on his development.
Kiprop Handles Heat to Win in Hengelo
Kiprop said the race was difficult because of the weather, but he remained confident from the start.
“It was not easy, the weather was tough,” Kiprop said. “At the start line, I told myself I must win this race. It was my first time in Hengelo and I really enjoyed it.”
He said he focused on finishing strongly once the race entered the decisive stages.
“In the final metres, I just thought: I must sprint and win. For the upcoming season, I want to perform well at the Commonwealth Games.”
Kiprop beat Eritrea’s Saymon Amanuel to victory.
His compatriot Dolphine Chelimo also impressed, finishing seventh in a personal best of 13:13.72.
Ruiter Praises Tactical Discipline
Coach Ruiter said Kiprop and Chelimo followed the race plan well despite the difficult conditions.
“The boys ran very well and smart,” Ruiter said. “I told them not to go too fast in the first 3km because of the heat. Slowly, they moved up and beat athletes with personal bests under 13 minutes.”
The race opened with Dutch runner Lars Laros setting the early pace. He passed 1000 metres in 2:37.31.
Ethiopia’s Teshager Alemayehu then controlled the middle stages before Kiprop moved into command by the 4000-metre mark.
From there, Kiprop held his position and finished strongly to claim victory.
Commonwealth Games Target
Kiprop’s win adds momentum to his preparations for the Commonwealth Games.
He won bronze at the 2024 World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima and is now pushing closer to elite senior recognition.
Although he has not yet broken the 13-minute barrier, his performance in Hengelo showed growing maturity and race control.
For Ruiter, the victory also offered another sign that Uganda’s next generation of distance runners is beginning to take shape.
