National team begins residential training ahead of World Cross Country Championships

The Uganda National Athletics Team has commenced residential training in preparation for the 46th edition of the World Cross Country Championships, scheduled for January 10, 2026, in Tallahassee, Florida, USA.

The squad of 26 athletes, guided by national coaches Benjamin Njia, Peter Chellangat, and Immaculate Chelangat, is currently camped at Trinity Biblical Institute in Kapchorwa.

Njia, who also serves as Vice President of Technical at the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF), emphasized the importance of residential training in building cohesion and teamwork. He noted that the one-month intensive program, which began on November 26 and runs until January 6, 2026, is designed to prepare athletes both physically and mentally for the global challenge.

“We normally make them train together because cross-country championships are about teamwork,” Njia explained. “By the end of these training sessions, athletes are ready to face competitors from different countries and deliver positive results.”

The athletes selected for camp were identified during the National Cross-Country Championships held on February 10, 2025, at Mbale Golf Course. They will compete across categories including Senior Men and Women, Junior Boys and Girls, and the 2km Mixed Relay.

Reigning World Cross Country Champion Jacob Kiplimo underscored the importance of collective preparation, likening cross country to football in its reliance on team spirit.

“Cross country is more like football because we need one another to thrive,” Kiplimo said. He added that his personal goal is to secure another medal for Uganda: “I have done my best in previous championships. It is now upon me to maintain the spirit I started with. So far everything is good, it is only God to judge that day.”

Dominic Otuchet, President of the Uganda Athletics Federation, expressed optimism about the team’s prospects.

“We are positive that the national cross-country team selected has all the potential to make Uganda proud again come January 10. The way I see it, Uganda will win more medals in the senior men, women, and junior women categories,” Otuchet said.

Team Composition

Men’s Team: Jacob Kiplimo, Dan Kibet, Kenneth Kiprop, Deogracius Musobo, Dolphin Chelimo, Emmanuel Chebet, Abraham Cherotic, Jeremiah Kwemoi, Solomon Aniema, Daniel Chelogoi Kiprotic, Dan Kipyeko, Daniel Comboni, and Silas Chemutai.

Women’s Team: Sarah Chellangat, Joy Cheptoyek, Rebbecca Challangat, Martha Chemutai, Kareen Chemusto, Rispa Cherop, Charity Cherop, Bantalire Yeko, Nancy Chepkwurui, Filister Chekwemoi, Peace Chebet, Brenda Chekwei, and Slyvia Chelangat.