Do-or-die for Uganda's athletes as fourth trial decides last slots for Accra

Uganda’s top athletes are set for a decisive showdown this Saturday, April 24, as the fourth National Athletics Trial determines the team for the upcoming Africa Senior Athletics Championships in Accra, Ghana, scheduled for May 12–17.

Unlike the first three trials, this fourth meet carries greater weight, with athletes battling for the last available slots on the national team.

The competition is expected to be intense across both track and field events, as competitors aim to secure their place among Uganda’s finest heading to Accra.

Over 20 athletes are expected to be selected. For many participants, this is a crucial opportunity to prove form, consistency, and readiness on the national stage.

Uganda heads into the selection process with confidence following a commendable performance at the 2024 championships in Douala, Nigeria.

The country secured two gold medals through Leonard Chemutai and Loice Chekwemoi, both in the 3000m steeplechase, in addition to three bronze medals by Josephine Lalam in javelin, Esther Chebet in the 1500m, and Tom Dradiga in the 800m.

Uganda Athletics publicity Secretary Namayo Mawerere emphasized that selection will strictly be based on merit, noting that only the best-performing athletes will earn a spot on the team.

“We are going to field the best team for Africa. Our target is to perform better than we did in the last edition,” Mawerere state