Overview:
In the pipeline is the plan to upgrade the Uganda Para powerlifting championship an international one come 2024.
- Event: 1st Uganda Open Para Powerlifting Championship
- Date: Sunday, 9th April 2023
- Venue: MTN Arena, Lugogo – Kampala
The inaugural Uganda Open Para Power-lifting championship is confirmed to take place on Sunday, 9th April 2023 at the MTN Indoor Arena, Lugogo in Kampala city.
This was confirmed during the official launch held at the same premises on Wednesday, 22nd February 2023.
The launch was graced by National Council of Sports official Sarah Chelangat, Innocent Tumwesigye (General Secretary Uganda Paralympics Committee), Powerlifters Salafu Tamale (Para) and Denis Mbaziira as well as Bishop Isaiah Rich (chairperson of board, Munno Media Limited).
This event is being organized by the Dream Achievers Foundation Uganda Limited in partnership with Uganda Paralympic Committee, National Council of Sports (NCS) and Munno Media Limited.
Over 100 athletes (60 of them disabled) are expected to grace this event.
These will compete with the able powerlifters as a motivational boost, as explained by Tumwesigye.
Why we wanted the abled to play with the disabled, we wanted to help the abled to add quality to the disabled, and another thing, working together as a community is good, most gyms don’t work with the disabled, but when they find out that they can work together with the disabled, the gyms can include them because this is an inclusive sport. The plan is to make this event annual. By doing so, it will help to keep athletes engaged and fit hence ultimately helping them to prepare for international events.
Innocent Tumwesigye, General Secretary Uganda Paralympics Committee
In the pipeline is the plan to make this event an international one come 2024.
“We want the Uganda Para powerlifting championship to be included on the World Para-powerlifting calendar so that athletes from all over the world can take part.” Tumwesigye added.
Bishop Isaiah Rich, the Chairman of the board of Munno Media Limited, asserted that they came to support the cause because there are many talented disabled athletes who didn’t get chance to expose their talent and yet this platform can help.
“We have come to spot and identify talents and showcase to the public, so we do encourage talented people out there in the communities to come and participate.” Bishop Rich remarked.
Decorated Para powerlifter Salafu Tamale lauded the organizers for this initiative that he envisages as a step in the right direction to further develop the sport.
“I wish to thank the organizers of the Uganda Para Powerlifting championship. This is great for us to boost our confidence coming to international competitions” Tamale noted.
Rewards:
Exceling athletes will be rewarded with cash, equipment and assured certificates of appreciation.
The non para powerlifters will not be eligible to score points.
