World Cross Country: UAE, Portugal, Belgium confirm participation

UAE, Portugal and Belgium are the latest countries to confirm participation in the World Cross Country.

The three nations now bring the total to over 60 countries that have so far confirmed they will be in Kampala for the March 26 event.

The local organizing committee says over 70 countries are expected with a total of over 700 competitors.

Canada yesterday became the first country to confirm their arrival date. They will jet in on March 22 with a team of 24 athletes.

Uganda will become the fourth African country country to host the world meet. Morocco, South Africa and Kenya are the others.

Meanwhile Uganda's team for the mixed relays will be selected on Saturday. This will be one of the events at the world cross country.

Six runners (three men and three women) will be selected in Kololo to represent Uganda in the eight kilometer event.

The country goes into world history books for hosting the first ever mixed relay event organized under the auspices of the IAAF World Cross Country Championships.

The rest of Uganda's team is currently training in Kapchorwa.

Team Uganda:
Senior men : Joshua Cheptegei, Phillip Kipyeko, Abdallah Kibet Mande, Timothy Toroitich, Stephen Kiprotich, Stephen Kiisa, Fred Musobo and Mande Bushendich Senior women: Mercyline Chelangat,  Rachael Chebet, Dorcus Ajok, Doreen Chesang, Doreen Chemutai, Annet Chebet, Juliet Chekwel, Stella Chesang

U20 men:  Jacob Kiplimo, Titus Kwemoi, Victor Kiplangat, Elisha Chemutai, Kevin Kibet, Mathew Chepkrui, Anthony Ayeko and  Abel Chebet
U20 women: Peruth Chemutai, Janat Chemusto, Esther Chekwemoi, Sarah Chelangat, Scarlett Chemos, Adha Munguleya, Joy Cheptoek and Benna Sukuku.