Athletics coach Nalis Bigingo backs Kiplimo for marathon breakthrough

Despite holding Uganda’s national marathon record with a blistering time of 2:03:37, Jacob Kiplimo's competitive direction remains uncertain.

While his name has been included in the marathon team for the 2025 World Athletics Championships set for September 13–21 in Tokyo, Japan, no official confirmation has come from his camp on whether he will indeed take on the 42km challenge or stick to his traditional turf of the 5000m and 10,000m.

Amidst the suspense, renowned athletics coach Nalis Bigingo has stepped in with a strong recommendation not just for Kiplimo’s management but also for Uganda Athletics.

“In my view, Kiplimo has higher chances of winning medals in the marathon,” Bigingo said. “There is no doubt that he was performing well on track, but medals in those events came with much more difficulty. With the road, especially after what we saw at the London Marathon, Kiplimo is clearly built for it.”

Kiplimo made his marathon debut at the 2025 London Marathon in April, a performance that turned heads globally and signaled the birth of a new long distance contender on the roads. Though he did not win, his finishing time and form hinted at untapped potential and perhaps a future record breaker.

Bigingo believes that debut run was no coincidence.

“That performance was a clear message. Kiplimo is capable of dominating the marathon just like he did in the 21km,” he said. “If he stays focused and chooses the marathon path now, he might even join the league of those pushing to break the elusive two hour barrier.”

The World Athletics Championships marathon team for Uganda already features seven athletes four men and three women with Kiplimo's name standing out. However, his participation is still under deliberation, as his management team has yet to make an official announcement.

 “Marathon medals are within reach for Kiplimo. He should take this opportunity now when he is still young, strong, and focused. His consistency and road performance speak louder than words.”

As Uganda prepares for a potentially historic appearance in Tokyo, all eyes remain on Jacob Kiplimo whether he will finally commit to the marathon and follow in the footsteps of teammate  Joshua Cheptegei and Victor Kiplangat, or continue juggling between track and road.

One thing is clear: with experts like Bigingo placing their bets on the road, the marathon could well be Kiplimo’s golden path forward.