‘It's my turn': Two-time Olympic gold medallist confirmed for Antrim Coast Half Marathon
The Ugandan, who won gold in both the 5,000m and 10,000m at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, will take to the start line for the race on Sunday August 24.
As well as being a two-time Olympic champion, Cheptegei also holds the world record in both distances and will be one of the favourites to win around the Antrim coast.
'I'm very excited to come to Ireland for the first time and run at the Antrim Coast Half Marathon. I've watched the race on television and the course looks beautiful and very fast. My teammates both hold the course record and now it's my turn to run here,' said Cheptegei.
The race, which was founded in 2020, has grown exponentially in the last five years to become one of the top races of its kind around the world, with over 6,000 runners expected to take part this year.
Past winners have included British hero Mo Farah on the men's side, while Ethiopia's Yalemzerf Yehualaw is aiming to win her fourth title on the women's side this year.
But the acquisition of Cheptegei for the field will add another dimension to the event, which this year is anticipating participants from over 40 countries.
'This is the very first time Joshua has been to Ireland. It's such an honour to welcome him to the north coast of Antrim where he will join thousands of people to run the Antrim Coast Half Marathon course,' said race organiser James McIlroy.
"We are sure he will be running with a win in mind so as a spectator this is going to be a thrilling experience.
'Everyone who takes part in the 2025 Antrim Coast Half Marathon gets to say they raced against the reigning double Olympic champion, four-time world champion and current world record holder over both the 5,000m and 10,000m distances. That's the sort of bragging rights runners live for.
'Joshua is coming here to win, but also to inspire. Whether you're a young runner in Belfast or a seasoned club athlete from further afield, seeing a legend like Cheptegei compete in your backyard is a once-in-a-generation moment.'
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