Over 800 athletes primed for National Cross-Country showdown

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Excitement is building for Uganda’s National Cross-Country Championship, scheduled for February 8 at the stunning Tororo Golf Course.

With over 800 athletes competing in diverse categories, this year’s event is set to offer a thrilling display of speed, stamina, and determination.

A staple in the Uganda Athletics Federation’s (UAF) calendar, the championship highlights the nation’s rich talent pool and love for long-distance running, attracting fans and competitors from across Uganda.

Competitors will race across four categories: the Under-20 Men’s and Women’s 6km races, the Men’s and Women’s 8km races, and the Senior Men’s and Women’s 10km races.

Unlike previous editions, this year’s championship will not serve as a selection event for the World Athletics Cross-Country Championships, as there is no world cross-country event this year.

Despite this change, UAF’s Publicity Secretary, Abdallah Muhammed, assures fans and participants that the competition will maintain its customary intensity and excitement.

“Registration is officially open, and we’re thrilled to see many of our elite athletes confirming their participation,” Muhammed said. “I encourage all athletics fans to come in large numbers and support our runners as they compete on this grand national stage.”

Muhammed also teased the possibility of seeing defending champion Jacob Kiplimo in action. The world-class long-distance runner may use this championship as part of his training for the London Marathon in April.

“Having a strong presence of elite athletes would be a treat for fans and a great motivator for emerging athletes,” Muhammed added.

Jacob Kiplimo is the defending champion in the Senior Men’s category, while Racheal Chebet Zena defends her title in the Senior Women’s category.

Although this year’s edition will not determine Uganda’s representatives for the World Athletics Cross-Country Championships, its significance remains high. The next world cross-country championships are scheduled for 2026 in Florida, USA, offering Ugandan athletes plenty of time to fine-tune their skills and aim for success on the global stage.