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The Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) recently announced a robust team of 21 athletes, poised to represent the nation at the forthcoming World Championships in athletics. The grand event, scheduled to take place from August 19th to 27th, 2023, in the picturesque city of Budapest, Hungary, is already brimming with excitement and expectations.

Leading Uganda’s campaign is none other than Joshua Cheptegei, the reigning World 10,000m Champion. Having established a stronghold in the track arena, Cheptegei is unwavering in his ambition to secure top honours in both the 10,000m and 5,000m races. Complementing him is the equally resolute Jacob Kiplimo, showcasing the strength and Caliber of Ugandan athletes.

Uganda’s hopes in the women’s category are pinned on a stellar lineup. The vanguard comprises Chemutai Peruth, the current Olympic 3000m Steeple Chase Champion; the formidable Nakaayi Halima, who bagged the title at the 2019 World Championship; and Winnie Nanyondo, a proud recipient of the 2014 Commonwealth Bronze medal.

Adding depth and versatility to the team are veteran athletes Stella Chesang and Sarah Chelangat, both of whom bring their vast experience to the fore. The athletes will embark on their journey in three carefully planned phases, with departures slated for August 17th, 21st, and 24th via Turkish Air. Of particular interest is the final batch set to leave on August 24th, as it comprises six Marathon Athletes. These athletes will compete on the 26th and 27th, vying for glory in the Women’s and Men’s races.

Reminiscing about the commendable 2022 performance, where Uganda clinched the 16th position on the medal table during the World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon, UAF has even loftier aspirations this time around. Joshua Cheptegei had done the nation proud by winning Gold in the 10,000m race, with Jacob Kiplimo (10,000m) and Oscar Chelimo (5000m) both securing bronzes. Encouraged by this past feat, UAF is optimistic about surpassing these achievements in Budapest.

With such a formidable lineup and high spirits, Uganda is all set to make its mark on the global athletics stage in 2023. The nation keenly awaits the championships, cheering for its athletes and hoping for a performance that will echo in the annals of sports history.

Team Uganda

Men

Tarsis Orogot -200m, Dradriga Tom -800m, Salim Mayanha -1500m, Leonard Chemutai-3000m steeplechase, Oscar Chelimo- 5000m, Joshua Cheptegei- 5000m and 10000m, Jacob Kiplimo -5000m and 10000m, Rogers Kibet- 10000m, Joel Ayeko- 10000m, Stephen Kissa- Marathon, Victor Kiplangat Marathon, Rotich Andrew – Marathon

Women

Halima Nakaayi- 800m, Winnie Nanyondo-1500m, Peruth Chemutai -3000m steeplechase, Sarah Chelangat – 5000m and 10000m, Prisca Chesang -5000m, Stella Chesang- 10000m, Doreen Chesang-Marathon, Rebecca Cheptegei- Marathon, Mercyline Chelangat- Marathon.