Uganda’s 4x400m mixed relay team delivered a spirited performance in their World Athletics Relays debut on Saturday, clocking a new national record of 3:16.59 but falling short of qualification for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
Competing in Heat 1 of the qualifying round, the quartet of Godfrey Chanwengo, Maureen Akiiki Banura, Haron Adoli, and Shida Leni faced stiff competition, ultimately finishing fifth behind Belgium, Australia, Kenya, and Italy.
Only the top two finishers from each heat and the next two fastest teams overall advanced to the final and secured automatic qualification to Tokyo.
Belgium led the heat with a world-leading time of 3:11.83, followed by Australia at 3:12.34, which also marked an area record.
Though we fell short of direct qualification, Team Uganda set a new national record in the 4x400m mixed relay at the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou. The team now looks to secure a spot in the next round through tomorrow’s repechage.#AthleticsAt100 pic.twitter.com/Htf5U117sG
— Uganda Athletics Federation (@UgaAthletics2) May 10, 2025
Kenya grabbed the third spot in 3:13.41, earning a place in the final as one of the two fastest non-automatic qualifiers.
Despite missing out on progression, Team Uganda’s 3:16.59 run set a new national record in the event, underscoring the country’s growing potential in sprint disciplines.
The World Relays, taking place in China for the first time, features 32 nations competing in various relay events, with qualification to the Tokyo 2025 championships on the line.
