Araptany keen to shine in London

By James Bakama

AFTER Jacob Araptany won the steeplechase at the national athletics championship last year he warned that the days of Kenya’s dominance in the hurdles event were numbered.

“It won’t be long before I beat them (Kenyans),” warned Araptany, who that time promised to finish on the medal podium at the World Championships in Daegu.

But as things would turn out, the Ugandan teenager would fail to match the experience of more seasoned opposition from Kenya, France and Ethiopia.

He finished sixth but his spirit was still not about to be killed.

“I am still young but confident that one day I will dominate the event,” vowed Araptany, who will in a fortnight’s team be one of the 12 runners representing Uganda at the London Olympics.

Araptany’s ambition makes him a darling of most coaches. “He is not only a good talent, but is also very brave,” noted coach Nalis Bigingo.

He has lately been working on his finish.  “My final lap has been a problem. I lead for much of the race only to lose out in the final 400 meters. 

I must say I have improved a lot and should be able to do well in London.”