Nairobi, Kenya – Uganda’s track stars Shida Leni and Adoli Haron delivered electrifying performances at the ABSA Kip Keino Classic on Saturday, headlining the nation’s contingent with record-breaking and career-best times in the 400m races.
Shida Leni, Uganda’s undisputed sprint queen, shattered her own national record in the women’s 400m, stopping the clock at 50.93 seconds to lower her previous mark of 51.25.
Her commanding performance drew wide praise and cements her as a leading contender ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Not to be outdone, rising star Adoli Haron blazed through the men’s 400m in a stunning 45.21 seconds, setting a new personal best and marking a major breakthrough on the continental stage.
The Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) celebrated both achievements, hailing the duo as “champions carrying Uganda’s flag high.”
“Huge congratulations to Adoli Haron for smashing his personal best with a stunning 45.21s at the Kip Keino Classic. Keep soaring, champ!” UAF posted on social media.
“History made!” read part of the Federation’s jubilant announcement regarding Leni’s consistency.
The ABSA Kip Keino Classic, part of the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold series, attracted elite athletes from across Africa, offering a perfect platform for Olympic hopefuls to fine-tune their performance.
While results from the longer distance races are still being confirmed, Uganda’s presence at the event was strong and strategic, signaling continued investment in track and field development.
With Paris 2024 on the horizon, Uganda’s athletics program has plenty to celebrate—and even more to prepare for.
Ugandans in Action:
Chelangat Sarah – Women’s 5000m
Cherop Charity – Women’s 5000m
Shida Leni – Women’s 400m
Adoli Haron – Men’s 400m
Cherop Samuel Simba – Men’s 5000m
Cherotich Abraham – Men’s 5000m
Rotich Gideon – Men’s 3000m Steeplechase
