Benjamin Njia, the Vice President of Technical at the Uganda Athletics Federation, expressed confidence in the selected team based on their previous international race performances. He mentioned that during their preparations, the team showed great potential and capability to defend the nation in this anticipated event.
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The team during their training, together with Joshua Cheptegei in Kapchorwa. Photo by William Cheptoek.
The
Uganda National Athletics team is all set for the World Athletics Road Running
Championships, with a contingent of 14 talented athletes. They underwent intensive non-residential
training in Kapchorwa and are now ready to compete against countries like
Kenya, Ethiopia, and 57 others. The team departed the country on Thursday,
September 28th.
Led by Paul Okello, the Organizing Secretary
of the Uganda Athletics Federation, the team includes athletes such as Abel
Chebet, Ali Chebures, Hosea Kiplangat, Andrew Kwemoi Rotich, Leonard Chemutai,
Kenneth Kiprop, Dismas Yeko, and Abu Mayanja in the men's category. Representing Uganda in the women's category
are Annet Chelangat Chemengich, Belinda Chemutai, Winnie Nanyondo, Peruth
Chemutai, Prisca Chesang Chemweno, and Joy Cheptoyek.
Benjamin Njia, the Vice President of
Technical at the Uganda Athletics Federation, expressed confidence in the
selected team based on their previous international race performances. He
mentioned that during their preparations, the team showed great potential and
capability to defend the nation in this anticipated event.
Abu Mayanja, the team captain, shared his
hopes for a good performance at the event, citing the history of success of the
selected team and the rigorous training they have undergone. "By God's
grace and teamwork, we shall shine," said Mayanja. The 3000-meter steeplechase Gold medalist,
Peruth Chemutai, expressed her enthusiasm for the event. "5K road running
is one of my favorite races as a middle-distance runner, and I hope to give my
best," said the soft-spoken Chemutai.
The 2023 World Athletics Road Running
Championships are scheduled to take place in Riga, Latvia, on October 1, 2023.
The event will feature races for the half marathon 21 km, 5 km, and 1-mile
distances, along with mass-participation events for the same. The Ugandan
athletes are determined to showcase their skills and bring glory to their nation.
Best of luck to the team as they embark on this thrilling competition!
