Local body, Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) is hopeful that the number of athletes will surge at the international levels. According to body head, Dominic Otuchet, many athletes are working on improving their times and strides so as to reach the world meets podiums. “I am optimistic we shall have more athletes in most of these world athletics events” he said.
With most of the top athletes currently traversing Europe, UAF hopes to stick to the development programmes so as to raise new crops of talent. Otuchet has high hopes in Bombo SS’ Halima Nakaayi who qualified for the 14th IAAF World Athletics Championships in Barcelona early next month. Also on the list of hopefuls is Hared Marathon 10km winner, Daniel Kuruong. Kuruong won the 5000m at this year’s fourth trials at Namboole. Steeplechase athlete, Nathan Ayeko is among the raw talent that UAF is hoping to bring to the brim of top class athletics.
Many Ugandan athletes are hindered by financial constraints to take part in the international events which UAF is working on. Unlike Uganda, neighbours Kenya have dominated the 800m, men’s steeplechase and marathons in the world. The country is now spoilt for choice on who to take to London in the summer.