Kampala — Uganda’s rising athletics stars delivered an impressive performance over the weekend, with 11 new athletes qualifying for the upcoming World Under-20 Championships during the third National Track and Field Trials.
According to Uganda Athletics, the latest results bring the total number of Ugandan qualifiers to 25, up from 14 who had already met the standards during the first two trials held in March.
The trials showcased growing depth in Uganda’s junior ranks, particularly in middle- and long-distance events, with standout performances in the 3000m category for both men and women.
Among the new qualifiers in the women’s 3000m were Yeko Bentalin, Chekwemoi Felister, Chebet Peace, Chelimo Keren, Chelimo Rachael, and Chebet Isella, while the men’s category saw Kipyeko Dan, Kibet Michael, Kwemboi Ivan, Cherotich Levi, and Chemayek Solomon secure qualification times.
Uganda Athletics President Domenic Otucet hailed the performances, expressing confidence in the country’s future in global athletics.
“The number of good athletes in the U20 category is very big and very good for the future of athletics in the country,” Otucet said. “That shows the great potential Uganda has and confirms what we saw last year—that the biggest number of medals won came from the U20 athletes.”
He added that the strong pipeline of young talent would ensure continuity at the highest level of competition.
“We aren’t worried about continuity. We are more confident that the foundation that we have laid is a firm foundation, giving us a big number of excellent young athletes ready to replace the big names that we have now,” he said.
Earlier qualifiers from the March trials included athletes competing in the 800m, 1500m, and 5000m events, further highlighting Uganda’s dominance in distance running.
The number of qualifiers is expected to rise further ahead of the National Track and Field Championships finale in June, as more athletes aim to meet the qualification standards.
The World Athletics U20 Championships are scheduled to take place from August 4–9, 2026, at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, United States.
With a growing pool of young talent, Uganda is positioning itself as a strong contender on the global stage, particularly in distance running disciplines where it has traditionally excelled.