The official motto and visual identity for the 20th edition of the World Athletics Championships, Tokyo 2025 (WCH Tokyo 25), have been unveiled by the Local Organising Committee, setting the stage for what promises to be an extraordinary nine days of competition.
The motto, Every second, SUGOI, reflects the thrilling nature of athletics and incorporates the Japanese word “SUGOI,” meaning amazing or extraordinary, symbolizing awe-inspiring moments that will unite fans and athletes worldwide.
Accompanying the motto is a visually striking identity, with an official poster designed to capture the energy and dynamism of athletics.
Renowned Japanese calligrapher Bisen Aoyagi contributed to the design, which features Edo purple as the primary color, complemented by black, gold, and red.
These elements will be showcased across stadium visuals, ticket designs, and television broadcasts, creating a unified and immersive experience for all attendees and viewers.
Uganda’s Athletes on the Path to Tokyo
Uganda boasts a mix of confirmed qualifiers and athletes awaiting final quotas to determine their participation.
Confirmed Qualifiers:
- Belinda Chemutai secured her spot in the women’s 5000m with an impressive performance in Barcelona on December 31, 2024.
- Halimah Nakaayi, a seasoned competitor, earned her place in the women’s 800m after achieving the entry standard in Switzerland on August 22, 2024.
- Peruth Chemutai, the Olympic gold medalist, qualified for the 3000m steeplechase and is expected to be a strong contender.
- Stella Chesang has met the entry standard for the women’s marathon.
- Joshua Cheptegei, the defending world champion, holds a wild card for the men’s 10,000m. Although his participation is uncertain due to a transition to marathons, his presence would bolster Uganda’s medal hopes.
- Victor Kiplangat, the defending world champion in the men’s marathon, is another confirmed participant, alongside Stephen Kissa, who met the entry standard.
- Jacob Kiplimo has qualified for the men’s 10,000m.
Awaiting Qualification by Rankings:
- Sarah Chelangat and Annet Chemengich are vying for spots in the women’s 10,000m.
- Loice Chekwemoi hopes to join Peruth Chemutai in the women’s 3000m steeplechase.
- In the women’s marathon, Juliet Chekwel and Mercyline Chelangat are awaiting their fate.
- In the men’s 800m, Tom Dradriga is seeking a qualification by rankings.
- In the men’s 10,000m, Oscar Chelimo, Dan Kibet, Rogers Kibet, and Martin Kiprotich are in contention for spots.
- Leonard Chemutai is eyeing a place in the men’s 3000m steeplechase.
- For the men’s marathon, Joshua Cheptegei, Andrew Rotich, Abel Chebet, Isaac Kibet, Abel Somikwo, Ezekiel Chepkorom, and Jonathan Akankwasa are awaiting confirmation.
The final list of eligible athletes for non-marathon events will be released on August 27, while the marathon list will follow on May 7, 2025.
With the unveiling of the WCH Tokyo 25 motto and visuals, the countdown to this global showcase has gained momentum.
Uganda, a nation renowned for its long-distance running talent, is poised to make a significant impact.