Athletes gear up for pivotal national trials ahead of Akii Bua Memorial

It has been an eventful few weeks for Uganda’s top athletes as preparations intensify for the highly anticipated Akii Bua Memorial Invitational Meeting.

This year’s edition holds special significance as it will also mark the official celebration of 100 years of Uganda Athletics, making it a must-attend event for athletes, officials, and fans alike.

Before that, the Seventh National Trials—set for this Saturday—will serve as the final domestic event of the season ahead of the Memorial.

The Invitational is one of the last major competitions before the National Track and Field Championships, which are scheduled for July 24–26.

A strong turnout is expected at the Trials, with numerous elite athletes aiming to make a statement. Among them is sprinter Benson Okot, who is eyeing a debut at the World Championships.

“My preparations have gone well. I’ve been focusing more on the 200m, but I’m excited to test myself in the 100m this weekend—it will be my first of the season. I’ve also scheduled a few races in Europe in mid-June,” said Okot.

Winnifred Atimango, currently the only Ugandan woman to surpass six meters in the long jump this year, is expected to compete and potentially set a new personal best. Her focus is set on qualifying for the upcoming FISU World University Games.

Josephine Lalam is slated to feature in the javelin throw at Namboole, where the Trials will take place. With competition heating up, the event comes at a crucial time in the athletics calendar.

However, some notable names—such as Shida Leni and Godfrey Chanwengo—will not be participating this weekend. Instead, they are focused on preparing for the Akii Bua Memorial, which is just two weeks away.

Before turning full attention to the World Athletics Championships later in the year, athletes will still have several key opportunities to compete, including the African Schools Games in Algiers and the CAA African U18/U20 Championships.