Uganda’s long-distance icons Jacob Kiplimo and Joshua Cheptegei are set to headline the 32nd National Cross Country Championships on November 15 at Mbale Golf Course.
Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) President Dominic Otucet confirmed during a press briefing at the federation offices that Chicago Marathon champion and World Cross Country titleholder Kiplimo will take part in the national event.
Cheptegei, the reigning world 10,000m champion, is also expected to feature, adding star power to what promises to be a competitive field.
The championship will serve as the official qualifier for Uganda’s team to the 46th World Athletics Cross Country Championships, scheduled for January 10, 2026, in Tallahassee, Florida.
That makes the Mbale meet a decisive moment for runners hoping to earn a place on the national team and represent Uganda on the global stage.
The competition will feature multiple categories, including 10km races for senior men and women, 8km for juniors, 4km mixed relays, and 2km events for both senior and masters athletes aged 35 and above.
Otucet said the federation expects a strong turnout from both elite and emerging athletes as Uganda looks to maintain its dominance in world cross-country running.
