Uganda’s 2026 motocross season got underway in Garuga with a strong turnout across multiple classes, as junior riders delivered some of the standout performances at the opening round.
The event also highlighted ongoing calls for stronger backing as Uganda targets fielding a full team at the 2026 continental competitions in Namibia, where the country currently sits third in Africa.
The junior categories drew particular attention, with the 50cc junior class won by Riyadh Katerega on 60 points, followed by Saad Nsambu on 49 and Roy Faith Kaye on 32. In the 50cc senior category, Israel Mpuga topped the standings with 60 points ahead of Ariella Katende on 49 and Avisha Laboke on 45.
Katende also claimed victory in the 50cc ladies class with 60 points, beating Muganzi Ronieta who scored 51, while Kasana Pretty finished third with 30.
In the WMX Open category, Shamillah Katete secured first place with 53 points, narrowly ahead of Asia Kasirye on 49, with Swansi Sambo third on 46. The 65cc class saw Musede Jude Kyle take top honours on 60 points, followed by Emil Ssegurinya on 49 and Mukumba Jerome on 45. Jonathan Katende won the 85cc category with 60 points, while Ethan Paul Musede and Isaac Mutima tied on 49 points in second and third respectively.
The 125cc class provided one of the day’s most competitive contests. Miguel Katende emerged winner with 57 points, with Jerome Mubiru close behind on 54 and Ron Young third on 39 after a tightly fought race that kept spectators engaged throughout.
George Ssemakula, clerk of the course and also a rider parent, stressed the importance of developing young riders, noting that the absence of leading MX1 and MX2 competitors placed added focus on the junior pipeline. He said the emerging riders represent the sport’s future and require sustained support to maintain Uganda’s strong continental standing.
