Fortebet Real Stars Monthly Awards: Kiplimo, Nakawala, Manirola Shine Bright in October
Kiplimo, Nakawala, and Manirola Crowned October Fortebet Real Stars Award Winners
By Kayiira Jackson
World marathon champion Jacob Kiplimo, table tennis ace Jemimmah Nakawala, and boxer Farahat Manirola have been named the October 2025 Fortebet Real Stars Sports Award winners, recognizing their exceptional performances in their respective sports.
The awards ceremony, organized by the Real Stars Sports Agency, was held on November 4, 2025, at Lazio Restaurant and attended by Judith Nabuule from Jude Colour Solutions, Resty Mbatidde Namugema from title sponsor Fortebet, and the agency’s CEO Isaac Mukasa
Fresh from his triumph at the 2025 Chicago Marathon, Jacob Kiplimo claimed the Athletics Award after a record-breaking performance. The Ugandan star clocked 2:02:23, becoming the seventh-fastest marathon runner in the world and setting a new national record, surpassing the mark he set earlier in April this year.
Kiplimo’s stellar run added another milestone to his glittering career, further establishing him as one of the leading figures in global long-distance running.
In table tennis, Jemimmah Nakawala was named the best player of the month after a dominant run that saw her secure three consecutive victories — performances that were instrumental in Team Uganda’s qualification for the World Championships.
Nakawala edged out fellow nominees Pervin Nangonzi and Judith Mirembe, whose performances, though impressive, could not match her consistency and impact throughout the month.
The Boxing Award went to Farahat Manirola, who claimed his second career Real Stars accolade, the first coming in May 2024 after he won a professional belt.
This time, Manirola earned the honor after clinching a gold medal at the East Africa Zone 3 Championship, outperforming fellow contenders Aziz Ringo and Willy Kyakonye to secure the monthly recognition.
The Fortebet Real Stars Sports Awards, held monthly, celebrate standout athletes across various disciplines including athletics, boxing, football, rugby, and table tennis.
CEO Isaac Mukasa commended the winners for their outstanding commitment and performances, emphasizing that the awards aim to motivate athletes and promote sports excellence across Uganda.
“These awards are about recognizing effort, consistency, and excellence. Kiplimo, Nakawala, and Manirola have raised Uganda’s flag high and continue to inspire young athletes,” Mukasa noted.
With champions like Kiplimo, Nakawala, and Manirola leading the charge, Uganda’s sports landscape continues to shine on the regional and global stage.