Ugandan rowers begin Tokyo 2020 expedition
The rowers at flag-off. PHOTO BY ISMAIL KEZAALA
KAMPALA. On top representing the national side, playing at the Olympics is every athlete’s dream.
The Uganda national rowing side is no different, they depart for Khartoum, Sudan to participate in the East and Central Rowing Championships today.
In Sudan, they aim to garner momentum as they prepare for the World Championships in Austria, in August where the top 12 will earn slots at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Africans who fail to make the grade in Austria will have another window in Tunisia, in October where the top four can also qualify.
“This is an important step for us,” head coach and Uganda Rowing Federation (URF) technical director Rodrick Muhumuza told Sunday Monitor.
“It will pave a way to see us get closer to realising our Olympics dream. I also thank National Council of Sports (NCS) for the relentless support,” he added. A contingent comprising of six players, two umpires and two officials have had their travel backed by a Shs18m boost from NCS.
Umpires course
The two umpires will also undergo an upgrade course while in Sudan. URF president Hamza Kahwa acknowledged the support and vowed to show results.
NCS assistant general secretary David Katende Semakula lauded URF for the progress and said that the doors were alway open whenever they need help as he flagged them off at the NCS offices in Lugogo on Friday.
“Thank you for coming up with a team,” said Katende.
“It is never easy and I hope it’s not a one-off, such tournaments depict the level of activity in the federation. We are here to nurture and help you grow as long as you are progressive,” he noted.
Team: William Mwanga (captain), Edson Abawulire, Isaac Mugula, Suzan Nabukenya, Alfred Okello, Betty Nabiffo
Officials: Rodrick Muhumuza (coach & head of delegation), Joseph Nsubuga (technical), Hilda Nshuti, Jackie Nussu.
