Ugandan long distance runner Jacob Kiplimo on Tuesday put up a spirited fight beating Ethiopian World Championship medalist Selemon Barega to win 5000m of IAAF Golden Spike 2020 Athletics meeting in Ostrava.

The 19-year-old Ugandan fought off Barega in a fierce home straight brawl to take the win in 12:48.63, one of seven meeting records to fall on a clear night in the eastern Czech city where 3,000 spectators were allowed entry to Mestsky Stadium to help celebrate the meeting’s 59th edition.

Kiplimo’s win sent Ugandans into celebratory mood with many hitting social media to praise and congratulate the teenager.

First Lady and Minister for Education and Sports Janet Museveni was one of the many who congratulated Kiplimo.

“Hearty congratulations Jacob Kiplimo upon winning the 5000-metre race today at the 2020 Ostrava Golden Spike in Czechia. We appreciate your efforts. Keep it up and God bless you,” she posted.