From 800m to 1500m: Nakaayi aims for versatility and world domination

2019 world 800m champion Halimah Nakaayi is set to diversify her track career this season as she aims for greater glory across multiple events.

The Ugandan middle-distance runner has confirmed her intention to compete in various races as she works towards clinching another world title at the World Athletics Championships in September.

To achieve her ambitious goal, Nakaayi has taken a bold step by relocating her training base to the renowned Kaptagat camp in Eldoret, Kenya. This high-altitude training hub is home to some of the world’s greatest long-distance runners, including marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge and 1500m Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon. By training alongside these elite athletes, Nakaayi hopes to sharpen her endurance, speed, and versatility under the guidance of top-tier coaching staff.

Nakaayi’s move to Kaptagat follows her recent split from American coach Tim Rowberry, with whom she had trained for two years in the United States. Financial constraints played a significant role in her decision to relocate, as the high costs of training in the U.S. had become unsustainable.

“The expenses in America were overwhelming. For instance, I had to pay the coach $1,000 (approximately three million Ugandan shillings) every month. I managed to pay for a year, but when I asked my management for support, it became too difficult. Moving to Kaptagat was a more cost-effective solution,” Nakaayi explained.

Since joining Kaptagat in December last year, Nakaayi has been training under the mentorship of esteemed coach Patrick Sang. She believes this change will yield positive results as she strives to become a more versatile and dominant force on the track.

Already qualified for the World Athletics Championships in the 800m, Nakaayi has now set her sights on the 1500m as well. Her recent participation in the 1500m race at the first national athletics trial at Namboole Stadium last Saturday demonstrated her determination to expand her range.

“Training alongside athletes like Sifan Hassan and Faith Kipyegon has been incredibly inspiring. These strong women have competed in multiple events at major championships and won medals. If they can achieve such greatness, I believe I can too—as long as I put in the hard work,” Nakaayi said with conviction.

Her training regimen is now focused on improving her speed and endurance to prepare for the challenges ahead. While adapting to a new environment can be challenging, Nakaayi remains optimistic about the transition.

“Things are going well so far, but adjusting to a new setting takes time. Being closer to home has eased some of my worries, especially regarding finances,” she noted.

With her eyes set on excelling in both the 800m and 1500m events, Nakaayi is embracing this new chapter with determination and resilience. Her move to Kaptagat, inspired by some of the world’s best runners, is a strategic step in her pursuit of greatness.