Teryet Training Centre: A new beacon for athletics in Kapchorwa

The newly developed Teryet facility in Kapchorwa has quickly become a source of pride and excitement among local athletics enthusiasts. 

Known for its beauty, accessibility, and world-class construction, the center has so far hosted one major event organised by the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF): the Under-20 World Athletics qualifiers in July this year.

It also served as an awarding venue for this year's National Cross Country Championships.

Locals did not miss the opportunity to take photos at Teryet

Kapchorwa High Altitude Training Centre, the only athletics facility in the Sebei region, is nearly complete. Thanks to the well-paved road from Kapchorwa town, reaching Teryet has become more convenient. The journey from town spans 12 kilometers, and Boda Boda riders typically charge between 4,000 and 5,000 shillings for the trip. However, the facility is not yet open to the public and is mostly accessed during athletics events.

Locals who visit the center cannot resist snapping photos against its scenic backdrop, feeling a sense of achievement simply for being part of the experience. The community is hopeful that the facility will transform athletics in the region.

The road to Teryet High Altitude Centre

Martin Chemonges, a resident from Kween, believes the center will attract international athletes, enhancing Kapchorwa's reputation as a hub for competitive sports.

“With athletics, it brings together people from all parts of the world. With good roads and a high-standard track, foreign athletes will want to train here, boosting local incomes,” Chemonges shared.

Silver Yeko, another local, expressed similar enthusiasm. He sees the center as a platform to nurture Ugandan talent and attract tourists, which would uplift Kapchorwa's economy. "Whenever I get a chance, I can’t miss coming to Teryet. Knowing that the Sebei region now has such a facility brings me immense joy. It's a testament to the dedication we have for the sport," Yeko remarked.

The track and field facility at Teryet, Kapchorwa

However, there are concerns that need addressing before the center is fully operational. Visitors have noticed the facility lacks mobile network connectivity, which locals hope the government will address by installing signal boosters. Additionally, there is a call for spectator seats and accessible toilet facilities to improve the experience for both fans and athletes.

The sentiment among locals is clear: if Kapchorwa’s athletes have already achieved remarkable success without access to world-class facilities, the addition of Teryet is bound to elevate their performance and bring even greater glory to the region.

As the finishing touches are added to the Teryet facility, optimism runs high among locals who see it as a game-changer for Ugandan athletics. With its accessibility, high-quality infrastructure, and breathtaking setting, Teryet is not just a venue but a symbol of pride for Kapchorwa and the entire Sebei region. Once final improvements are made, locals believe it will stand as a premier destination for both athletes and tourists, further boosting the community's economy.

For Kapchorwa, Teryet represents not only the hope of fostering local talent but also the promise of a future filled with new achievements on the world athletics stage.