By David Ochieng
The Police and Prisons clubs asserted their dominance at the National Cross Country Championships held at the Tororo Golf Course, showcasing their strength across multiple categories.
The event, organized as part of the Uganda Athletics Federation’s (UAF) centennial celebrations, attracted over 300 athletes from various clubs.
Despite the absence of Uganda’s elite runners, including Jacob Kiplimo and double world champion Joshua Cheptegei, the 31st edition of the championships delivered thrilling competition.
In the senior men’s race, Police’s Kenneth Kiprop outpaced nearly 100 athletes to secure victory, finishing ahead of teammate Abel Chebet and Bukwo’s Herbert Kibet.
In the senior women’s category, Sarah Chelangat of Uganda Wildlife Authority emerged victorious, completing the race in 33 minutes and 50 seconds. She edged out Joy Cheptoyek and several other contenders to take the top spot.
The event also saw middle-distance runner Halimah Nakaayi compete in the short relay race, where she finished third. Nakaayi noted that her focus was on using the competition as preparation for upcoming international events.
The championship, attended by senior athletes like Olympic marathon champion Stephen Kiprotich, marked the beginning of UAF’s centenary celebrations.
UAF President Dominic Otucet emphasized the importance of the milestone, urging Ugandans to celebrate 100 years of athletics development in the country. Kiprotich echoed the sentiment, calling on fans to support the sport as it continues to grow.
Although the event was not a selection race, the top three finishers in each category received cash prizes ranging from 100,000 to 500,000 UGX.
