Uganda’s Peruth Chemutai, defending Olympic champion of women’s 3,000m steeplechase has set her eyes on a second gold medal of the event in the upcoming Paris Olympics.
The star runner, who won Olympic gold at the 2020 Tokyo Games, told Xinhua she is more than determined to shine in Paris, although she underwent a tough period last year.
Uganda will be represented by 25 athletes.
Knowing well the challenges of topping the podium, Chemutai said she is happy to qualify for the Games, not everyone makes it to the Olympics.
“It is an honour to qualify for the Games and to be part of Team Uganda. As an athlete, I know it will not be easy in Paris since everyone wants to win a medal,” she said.
“I have been working hard for years now with the focus on the Paris Olympics. I am determined to go all the way and win yet another medal,” added Chemutai. “I know what to expect in Paris, but I am well prepared and motivated for it.”
Other Ugandan star athletes to watch in Paris include world champions Joshua Cheptegei and Jacob Kiplimo, who will compete in the men’s 5,000m and 10,000m races.
Dominic Otucet, President of the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) told Xinhua he is confident Uganda will bag some track and field medals in Paris.
“Our 21 athletes have trained really hard and many of them have now gained experience and know what to do at world events,” said Otuchet.
