Eugene, Oregon, USA: Uganda’s long-distance runner Charity Cherop produced a dominant performance to win the women’s 5,000 metres gold medal at the 2026 World Athletics U20 Championships, handing the country its first medal of the competition.
The 19-year-old crossed the finish line in 15:03.88, finishing ahead of Ethiopia’s Shito Gumi, who claimed silver in 15:07.91, and Kenya’s Joyline Chepkemoi, who settled for bronze in 15:09.08.
Cherop controlled the race from the outset in a field of 26 athletes, setting a relentless pace that quickly thinned the leading pack. By the 1,000-metre mark, only eight runners remained in contention before the group was reduced to four.
With just over two laps to go, the Ugandan made her decisive move, surging clear of her rivals to open an unassailable lead and cruise to victory as the new world junior champion.
The triumph marks a remarkable redemption for Cherop, who won silver at the previous World Athletics U20 Championships two years ago. She also becomes only the second Ugandan woman to win gold at the championships, ending a wait of more than 25 years since Dorcus Inzikuru achieved the feat.
Uganda’s Bentalin Yeko also produced a respectable performance, finishing eighth in 15:48.35.
Cherop will now turn her attention to the women’s 3,000 metres on Saturday, where she will be hoping to complete a memorable championship with a second medal.
Elsewhere, Uganda made an encouraging start in other events.
Shafik Murungi qualified for the men’s 800 metres semifinals as the fastest qualifier across all five heats after clocking 1:46.64.
In the men’s 5,000 metres, Michael Kibet finished 10th in 13:52.02, while Solomon Andiema crossed the line 18th in 14:26.01.
Cherop’s victory provides Uganda with a perfect start to its medal campaign in Eugene and strengthens the country’s reputation as one of the world’s leading producers of long-distance running talent.
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