Uganda's Ambassador to Denmark, Margaret M. Otteskov, has hosted celebrated long-distance runner Joshua Cheptegei and fellow Ugandan athletes at a reception in Copenhagen following his bronze medal performance at the World Athletics Road Running Championships.

Cheptegei secured third place in the men's half marathon on Sunday, September 20, clocking a personal best of 58:26.

The reception celebrated Cheptegei's achievement and his contribution to raising Uganda's profile on the international athletics stage, according to a press release issued by the Embassy.

Speaking at the reception, Cheptegei called for increased and sustained funding for athletics and the wider sports sector, emphasizing the importance of timely financial and logistical support to enable athletes to prepare adequately and deliver better results internationally.

He said athletics offers Uganda a valuable platform for global visibility, country branding and tourism promotion.

Cheptegei urged the Ambassador to continue advocating for greater investment in athletics, particularly in ensuring athletes receive timely logistical support, adequate preparation and the resources required to compete at the highest level.

Ambassador Otteskov said the international visibility generated through athletics complements Uganda's tourism and investment promotion efforts by increasing awareness of the country's natural attractions, culture, people and investment opportunities.

She reaffirmed the Embassy's commitment to celebrating and supporting Ugandan athletes whose achievements contribute to strengthening the country's international image and inspiring future generations.