Chelimo finishes fifth in 2000m steeplechase at Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games

Uganda's Rachael Chelimo made her debut in the women's 2000m steeplechase at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, finishing fifth with a personal best time of 6:49.56. This achievement marks Chelimo as the first Ugandan to compete in track and field at the Dakar Games. Her performance was notable, especially considering the competitive field of athletes from various countries. Chelimo's coach, Ziana Cheptoyek, expressed optimism about the young athlete's future in the event.

The women's 2000m steeplechase event saw Kenya's Abigael Kosgei take the top spot with a time of 6:30.24. Ethiopia's Mekonen Abera secured the second position with a time of 6:32.15, followed by Turkey's Elif Celik with a time of 6:36.99. The competition took place at Complexe Iba Mar Diop, where athletes faced challenging conditions. Despite the stiff competition, Chelimo managed to secure a respectable fifth position, showcasing her potential in the sport.

In the men's road race, Uganda's Ali Ssali had to withdraw due to a cramp in his right thigh. Ssali was holding a strong position in the international field early in the 76.5km road race along Dakar's Corniche Ouest. The riders faced temperatures of 33°C over nine laps of an 8.5km circuit. Despite his withdrawal, Ssali remains hopeful about his chances in Tuesday's time trial and is focusing on his recovery.

The men's road race was won by Belgium's Daan Wilmsen, who overtook Australia's Caleb McKenzie on the final lap to secure the top spot with a time of 1:47:04. McKenzie had opened a lead of more than 30 seconds but ultimately finished second. The challenging conditions and intense competition made the event exciting for spectators.

Chelimo's performance has generated optimism about her future prospects in athletics. Her coach, Ziana Cheptoyek, believes that Chelimo has a bright future in the 2000m steeplechase event. With her personal best time and fifth-place finish, Chelimo has demonstrated her potential to compete at a high level.

The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games have seen participation from athletes from various countries, showcasing their skills in different events. Uganda's athletes, including Chelimo and Ssali, have been working hard to make their mark in their respective sports. Despite the challenges faced, they remain hopeful about their chances of success in the games.

The games have also highlighted the importance of recovery and preparation for athletes. Ssali's withdrawal from the men's road race due to cramps emphasizes the need for athletes to focus on their physical well-being. With the time trial event approaching, Ssali is focusing on his recovery to ensure a strong performance.

Key points

• Rachael Chelimo finished fifth in the women's 2000m steeplechase event at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
• Ali Ssali withdrew from the men's road race due to a cramp in his right thigh.
• Chelimo's coach, Ziana Cheptoyek, believes she has a bright future in the 2000m steeplechase event.