Uganda flags off 21 athletes for World Athletics Championships in Tokyo

The Uganda National Council of Sports (NCS) and Uganda Athletics Federation have flagged off a 21-member team to compete in the 20th World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

The championships will take place from September 13 to 21, featuring various disciplines such as marathon, 10,000m, 5,000m, 800m, 1,500m, 3,000m, and 3,000m steeplechase.

The Ugandan team consists of 11 women and 10 men who have been training at the Trinity Bible College in Kapchorwa District.

They will depart for Tokyo in three batches, with the first group flying out today.

Some of the standout athletes include;

– Peruth Chemutai and Loice Chepkwemoi: Leading the steeplechase contingent

– Halima Nakaayi: Returning to defend her crown in the 800m

– Sarah Chelangat and Joy Cheptoyek: Competing in long-distance track races

– Stella Chesang, Juliet Chekwel, and Mercyline Chelangat: Representing Uganda in the marathon

– Victor Kiplangat: Defending his world marathon champion title

– Oscar Chelimo: Aiming to surpass his 2022 bronze medal in the 5,000m race

Notably, two prominent athletes, Joshua Cheptegei and Jacob Kiplimo, will not participate in the championships due to personal reasons.

Despite their absence, Uganda Athletics Federation President Dominic Otucet expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform well and win medals.

The Ugandan team is determined to make a mark in the championships, with athletes like Victor Kiplangat and Stephen Kissa looking to retain their titles.

The team’s optimism is palpable, with Otucet drawing parallels to Stephen Kiprotich’s marathon victory at the 2012 London Olympics ³.