Arua, (UG): West Nile region is actively scouting for athletic talents with the strong support of the West Nile Rural Electrification Company (WENRECO). This endeavour, according to the regional electricity company aims to groom high-quality athletes for the region.
The talent search event commenced on Saturday, October 14th, 2023, at the Mvara Secondary School Sports Arena in Arua City. Both the West Nile Association of Sports Officers (WASO) and WENRECO said they have successfully identified 10 promising athletes so far.
The event attracted runners from all 12 districts of West Nile, including Zombo, Nebbi, Pakwach, Arua, Maracha, Terego, Koboko, Yumbe, Moyo, Adjumani, Obongi, Madi-Okollo, and Arua city.
The athletes were rigorously tested in various categories, such as the 100M, 200M, 400M, 800M, 1500M, as well as relays in 4x100m and 4x400m.
This event garnered further attention as it was overseen by district sports officers and featured the presence of Ugandan sprinter Shida Leni, who had participated in the World Athletics Championship 2023 held in Budapest in August.
Retired athlete John Goville, who was mentored by the late John Akibua, also provided valuable technical guidance to the selection teams in identifying promising talents.
The ten athletes selected in the boys’ categories are Ambayo Boniface (Arua City), Combin Daniel (Koboko district), Otita Amos (Maracha district), Okot Andrew (Zombo district), Suta Dison (Arua City), and Jimmy Ginguti (Arua city).
In the girls’ categories, we have Judith Letaru (Arua city), Fancy Yik Parwoth (Nebbi district), Lilian Ayikuru (Koboko district), and Scovia Asara (Maracha district).
The General Manager of WENRECO, Kenneth Kigumba, pledged funds for the athletes’ training, including covering their coaching, feeding, school fees, and travel requirements. He also extended an invitation to sports officers to collaborate in ensuring these athletes excel in their careers.
Ade Fredrick Isaac, the Chairman of WASO, applauded WENRECO’s significant contribution to athletics, emphasizing that districts had struggled to fund sports adequately. He also encouraged journalists to take a keen interest in sports journalism, recognizing the importance of their role in promoting sports.
Both Shida Leni and John Goville offered valuable advice to the athletes, urging them to prioritize their physical and mental preparation and focus on their education.
Leni went the extra mile by providing training kits and sanitary pads to support female athletes and promised to offer guidance to them.
Unlike other regions where football often takes centre stage, West Nile’s young people are now discovering new opportunities in athletics, thanks to this support from WENRECO.
The region has been known for producing football players competing in the Uganda Premier League and across Africa.
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