Mixed 4x400m relay team flagged off ahead of World Athletics Relays debut

Optimism and national pride filled the air as Uganda’s mixed 4x400m relay team was officially flagged off to represent the country at the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China.

The event, set for May 11–12, marks Uganda’s debut in the mixed relay category—an important milestone in the nation’s athletics journey.

The flag-off ceremony took place at the National Council of Sports (NCS) headquarters in Lugogo, where the team was celebrated and encouraged ahead of their international challenge.

Leading the squad is Coach Moses Asonya, whose passion and confidence in his athletes were evident during his address to the media.

“My team is the best,” Asonya asserted. “Shida Leni holds the national 400m record, and both Haron Adoli and Maureen Banura have been in excellent form. We’re not going to China just to participate—we’re going to compete and qualify for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.”

The team is a well-balanced mix of experience and emerging talent. Shida Leni and Maureen Banura anchor the women’s side with speed and determination, while Haron Adoli brings composure and endurance, paired with rising star Godfrey Chan Wengo, who has impressed in recent competitions.

Joseph Oluga, the NCS Assistant General Secretary for Administration, who presided over the flag-off, praised the team and the Uganda Athletics Federation for their continued progress.

“Athletics remains one of Uganda’s strongest sports, and the government is committed to supporting its growth,” Oluga said. “But remember—you are ambassadors of Uganda. Your discipline and conduct reflect our national image.”

The mixed 4x400m relay is known for its intensity, strategy, and demand for perfect synchronization—qualities that Coach Asonya believes his athletes possess in abundance.

As the team heads to China, the hopes of an entire nation travel with them. Their journey to Tokyo could very well begin with a breakthrough performance in Guangzhou.