There are a few of the 12 athletes who have ruled out podium finishes but nonetheless, there is hope the side can return from the 14th IAAF World Championships in Moscow, Russia with at least a medal.
On Tuesday, the eight members of the side were flagged off by outgoing National Council of Sports General Secretary Jasper Aligawesa at Lugogo in Kampala. “We are going to compete against the best athletes in the world. But we are also very prepared for battle,” coach Benjamin Longiross told Kawowo Sports in an interview. “There have been two months of hard work with the team and I expect them to do perform well in Moscow.”
The team will have 2012 London Olympic marathon gold medalist Stephen Kiprotich and 2010 Commonwealth double gold medalist Moses Kipsiro. “I am happy to be part of this team,” Kipsiro said. “I may not perform well but I have hopes in the rest of the youngsters to make a mark.” Ronald Musagala who qualified for the 800m is the surprise new entrant on the team for the lucrative Moscow event.
Rarely has any Ugandan athlete qualified at home for any major international competition. The marathon trio of Stephen Kiprotich, Jackson Kiprop and Abraham Kiplimo that is currently training in Chirchir, Kenya leaves for Moscow next Tuesday. “We can count our chances in the marathon trio.” Kipsiro added.
Uganda has won three medals at senior level of the biennial competition. Davis Kamoga won Uganda’s first medal – silver in the 400m back in Athens 1997. Dorcus Inzikuru then won gold in the 3000m steeplechase at the 2005 edition in Helsinki. Kipsiro took bronze in the 5000m at the Osaka Championships six years ago. Inzikuru is ruled out because of injury.
Men: Moses Kipsiro (5,000m/10,000m), Philip Kipyego (5,000m), Timothy Toroitich (10,000m), Thomas Ayeko (10, 000m), Jacob Araptany (3,000m steeplechase), Benjamin Kiplagat (3, 000m steeplechase), Stephen Kiprotich (marathon), Jackson Kiprop ( marathon), Abraham Kiplimo (marathon)
Women: Sarah Nambawa (triple jump) and Juliet Chekwel (10,000m)