Nakaayi inspires students at ISSEA track, field competition
Role model. Nakaayi with participants at the International Schools of Southern and Eastern Africa (ISSEA) track and field competition at the International School of Uganda in Kabowa. Photo by Micheal Kakumirizi
World Athletics Champion Halima Nakaayi has called upon youngsters not to give up on their dreams and work hard in order to develop their talents.
This she said at the International Schools of Southern and Eastern Africa (ISSEA) track and field competition that ended on Saturday at the International School of Uganda (ISU) in Kabowa.
Nakaayi was the day’s centre of attraction as students yearned for a photo opportunity with her gold medal while others were eager to know how she made it to the world podium.
The 800m gold medallist advised the aspiring world champions to believe in themselves and work hard in all situations.
“Am always excited to attend athletics competitions for youngsters, I urge them to be hardworking and believe in themselves because everything is possible. Everyone can change his or her life no matter where they come from,” she said.
The three day event that started with cross country on Thursday was attended by students from eight international schools in Africa including; American International School of Johannesburg (AISJ), American International School of Mozambique (AISM), American International School Lusaka (AISL), International Community School, Addis Ababa (ICS), International School of Kenya (ISK), International School of Tanganyika (IST) Harare International School (HIS) and hosts ISU.
Among the good performers were ISU’s Roulf and Sara.
Rauf led the boys’ 100m race and also did well in high jump while Sara was third in the 100m girls’ race.
Roulf a Dutch-Ugandan student has participated in previous ISSEA track and field competitions and believes they have improved his talent.
“My talent has developed a lot, am getting better and better. I am trying to join the national team in the Netherlands. I am hoping that they will accept me this summer. Am bringing my times down,” he said.
