By Joseph Opio.

BONIFACE Kiprop was anointed the 2006 utl/USPA sportsperson Of The Year at an annual gala that was a graphic advert for exotic
refinement.

A sh51.4m magic wand from uganda telecom helped USPA conjure up a dizzying vortex of glitz and grandeur. And as sport collided with splendour to superlative effect, Kiprop marshalled all his on-track stamina to plunder the night’s most sought-after prize.

The Commonwealth gold medalist had seemed bound for a photo-finish with Dorcus Inzikuru but an imperious last kick in the home stretch earned him undeniably his most treasured accolade in a decorated calendar.

Kiprop’s smash-and-grab raid at the award night also snared the March and July monthly honours —— to congest an already overcrowded mantelpiece.

It was the second annual crown for the 21-year-old and it catapulted him into the rarefied realm of multiple past winners who include rally icon Charlie Lubega and Inzikuru.

Kiprop’s colourful anointment fortified the gala’s status as an affair whose magnetic appeal is without peer on Uganda’s packed social calendar.

The 400 guests fortunate enough to secure an invite were treated to a red-carpet reception and entertainment from a troupe of Uganda’s finest artistes.

An avalanche of food and drinks befitting of the most lavish African beer party turned the fête into a full-fledged fairytale.

USPA president, Douglas Mazune, hailed the gala’s sponsors for their faith in the sports scribes.

“I would like to thank our partners, utl, without whom such a glorious occasion would have remained beyond reach. I thank utl for its generous sponsorship and convey our deep gratitude for the faith they’ve shown in us.”

He added: “Though USPA is indebted to utl for this most laudable of deeds, I only pray that they shall feel sufficiently gladdened with our efforts this evening to continue our partnership. I sincerely hope we have given utl reason to make this joint venture an annual fixture.”

Presiding over the event, Parliament Speaker Edward Ssekandi branded the night an unmitigated success and showered effusive tribute upon both utl and USPA for a most noble undertaking.

“I can’t thank enough both utl and USPA for honouring our sportsmen. It’s an endeavour that should be praised fully and encouraged tirelessly.”