Athletics season kicks off with national trials at Namboole

Uganda's athletics season officially shifts into top gear this Saturday as athletes transition from endurance testing to speed competition at the first national athletics trials, scheduled for March 14 at Mandela National Stadium.

The trials will mark the beginning of a busy track season, providing athletes with an opportunity to assess their form while chasing qualification marks for major continental and global competitions.

National trials remain one of the most important platforms for Ugandan athletes, as they help determine selection for major championships and offer competitors the chance to meet required qualifying standards.

Athletes will be targeting qualification for several prestigious events on the international athletics calendar, including the African Athletics Championships, the Commonwealth Games, the World Athletics U20 Championships, and the World Athletics Indoor Championships.

For many athletes, particularly those who may not have frequent opportunities to compete outside Uganda, the national trials present a crucial chance to attain the qualifying times required for these major competitions.

Among the athletes eager to begin the season is Ugandan sprinter Shida Leni, who says she is confident and ready to test her speed on the track after focusing on endurance training earlier in the year.

"So far the season has not been bad. I tested my endurance during the over-distance event in Namboole and I feel ready to begin my season," Leni said.

She added that her main ambition this season is to qualify for the Commonwealth Games, although she also has several international engagements lined up before the global event.