By David Ochieng
The Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) is set to stage the National Cross Country Championship on Saturday February 8th at Tororo Golf Course Grounds, with over 400 athletes from across the country expected to compete.
The event marks the official start of the 2025 athletics season and serves as a key highlight in Uganda’s centennial celebrations of athletics.
Preparations have been finalized, with all necessary arrangements—including barriers and race markings—set up to accommodate the large field of runners.
“By the close of business on Friday, all necessary arrangements were in place to guide the hundreds of athletes set to participate,” said Abdullah Muhammad, the UAF Publicity Secretary.
A host of top-tier athletes are expected to take part, including Olympic gold medalist Peruth Chemutai, world champion Joshua Cheptegei, middle-distance star Halimah Nakaayi, and seasoned marathoner Stephen Kiprotich.
Their participation is expected to set a high standard of competition and inspire younger athletes.
Although the event is not a selection competition, it will serve as the official launch for the upcoming Akii Bua Memorial celebrations in Kampala.
“This championship is not a selection event but rather an official activity to launch The Akii Bua Memorial celebrations,” Muhammad confirmed.
With the championship attracting the country’s best talent, the Uganda Athletics Federation hopes it will also provide a platform for discovering emerging athletes who could represent Uganda on the global stage.
