Better late than never! US-based triple jumper Sarah Nambawa finally saved the day for Uganda.
Her win in the women’s triple jump final (13.90m) at 2.30m/s ensured the country’s national anthem was sung at the Charles de Gaulle stadium, Porto Novo Benin.
Nambawa beat South African C.Poisteger and Moroccan Jamaa Chnaik to defend the crown she won in the previous edition held in Nairobi a couple of years ago.
The leap, which was the second last, led her to a tie with the South African but because Nambawa’s was better, she kept the lead with a jump to go.
Both of them failed to make it perfect and Nambawa retained to position to scoop Uganda’s only gold medal at the meet.
Benjamin Kiplagat had earlier on Friday ended his four year medal drought with a bronze in the 3000m steeplechase.
Nambawa is still not yet confirmed for the summer games and looks forward to qualifying in Ghana or earning a wild card to the games.