Athletes get a lift

By Michael Nsubuga

Uganda’s junior team to the 2nd Youth Olympic Games (YOG) taking place in Nanjing, China will not have any kitting problems after acquiring a brand new set of uniforms from the Chinese government.

Chinese ambassador to Uganda Zhao Yali presented an assortment of sports equipment to the Minister of Education and Sports Jessica Alupo, UOC Vice President Galabuzi Ssozi and part of the team at the Chinese embassy in Kololo, Kampala.

The equipment included 20 track suits, 20 T-shirts, 20 pairs of shorts, 20 sports bags and 20 pairs of canvas shoes of the famous Anta brand. The donation followed a UOC plea to the Chinese for fi nancial assistance ahead of the games due August 16-28 in Nanjing city.

“In the spirit of solidarity and in order to show our friendship we decided to offer this kit, I should also thank the YOG Youth Association who mobilised for it from the manu- facturers,” Zhao said.

Minister Alupo urged the athletes to win medals in order to benefi t from the presidential sports award that comes with monthly payments from government for excelling athletes.

The team will be led by Godfrey Nuwagaba with badminton player Shamim Bangi acting as the athletes’ ambassador to the games.