3000m steeplechase runner Benjamin Kiplagat is one of the 16 Ugandan athletes who will take part in the London Olympics due July 27 – August 12.
He picked bronze at the Charles de Gaulle stadium during the 18th Africa Senior Athletics Championships in Porto Novo, Benin, and has had no time to celebrate the feat but focus on the world’s biggest games.
It was his first senior medal, something that has turned out to be a source of inspiration. “I feel happy” he said.
From the West African tourney, Kiplagat moved to Iten, a town in rift valley Province of Kenya a fortnight ago to prepare adequately for his second Olympic games.
And with the perturbing groin injury steadily fading away, his aim is to finish in the medal bracket. “I am getting better and this time round, I want to finish on the podium,” the Kiplagat affirmed.
While many think the wet summer in London will affect athletes’ performances, Kiplagat has less to worry. “I like it cold”
In the last edition at the Bird’s Nest stadium in Beijing four years ago, he settled for ninth in 8:20.27. He will compete with Jacob Araptany as the duo try to end Ethiopian and Kenyan dominance of the water jump race.
TEAM UGANDA FOR LONDON OLYMPICS
Ganzi Mugula (Swimming) – Captain,
Jamila Lunkuse (Swimming),
Edwin Ekiring (Badminton),
Charles Ssekyaaya (Weightlifting),
Abraham Kiplimo (5000m),
Thomas Ayeko (5000m),
Moses Ndiema Kipsiro (5000m),
Geoffrey Kusuro (5000m),
Dorcus Inzikuru (3000m steeplechase),
Jane Suuto (Marathon),
Stephen Kiprotich (Marathon),
Benjamin Kiplagat (3000m steeplechase),
Jacob Araptany (3000m steeplechase),
Janet Achola (1500m),
Annet Negesa (800m),
Julius Mutekanga (800m)