A persistent downpour did little to halt the momentum at the 4th edition of the National Athletics Trials held on Saturday April 12th at Namboole Stadium, where Uganda’s top runners gathered to compete despite the challenging weather.
Among them, visually impaired athlete Fred Masesa stood out, drawing admiration for his performance and resilience.
Tethered to his guide by a short rope, Masesa ran in perfect coordination, showcasing not only athletic skill but also a deep bond of trust and teamwork.
His participation added a compelling layer to the competition, reinforcing the message that ability can transcend disability.
“This isn’t just about running,” Masesa told this reporter. “It’s about proving that ability beats disability, every time.”
Having previously represented Uganda in international competitions, Masesa has leveraged his athletic career to raise awareness around disability inclusion and inspire others through his story.
His continued presence on the track serves as both a personal achievement and a source of national pride.
Despite a reduced audience—partly due to weather disruptions and scheduling overlaps—the trials went on as planned, offering athletes a valuable opportunity to gauge their form ahead of regional and global meets.
Organisers acknowledged the challenges but remained encouraged by the performances.
They expressed optimism about the future of Ugandan athletics, with aspirations to attract international participation from neighboring countries, including established competitors like Kenya.
