Weightlifters call for more domestic competitions

Ugandan weightlifters have called for an increase in domestic competitions, saying limited opportunities to compete are affecting their preparations, performance and ability to match athletes from other countries.

The athletes believe a more active competition calendar would help them assess their progress, identify weaknesses and set realistic targets as they seek to improve their performances.

Dan Tumukunde says the limited number of competitions and the late release of the annual calendar make it difficult for athletes to prepare adequately.

"The events we hold are not enough. We do not get the calendar early enough to prepare better. National events give coaches more time to prepare athletes, especially those who are not financially stable," Tumukunde said.

He added that regular competitions would help coaches and officials track athletes' performances and identify areas that need improvement.

Lydia Nakidde shares similar concerns, arguing that many of the events organised are selection competitions rather than standalone national championships.

"Unless we have international events, most of the competitions we hold are selection events. With more competitions, you get to know what you have improved and what you still need to work on," Nakidde said.

She believes frequent competitions would also motivate athletes to work harder, particularly when they win medals and see the results of their training.

"As an athlete, you have targets, but with few competitions, you cannot achieve them. Personally, I know of only one national event, while the rest are team selection events," she added.

However, weightlifting coach Khassim Nsubuga says financial constraints remain a major obstacle to organising more competitions.

According to Nsubuga, Uganda holds between four and five national events annually, depending on the international competition calendar.

"We would have held more events, but due to financial constraints, we cannot organise more competitions. However, next year, we plan to hold various events in different regions to improve performance and develop the sport," Nsubuga said.

Nsubuga believes athletes need regular competitive exposure to make meaningful progress, particularly in increasing the weights they can lift.

He argues that long periods without competition limit athletes' opportunities to test their strength, measure improvements and identify areas requiring attention.

The proposed regional competitions could therefore provide more athletes with opportunities to compete, while helping coaches assess talent and improve performance across the country.