Sande Bashaija
27 November 2011
Joseph Nsubuga, Francis Musaani and Alex Malinga will attempt to restore Uganda’s pride as over 20,000 people hit the streets this morning to compete in the annual MTN Kampala marathon.
Nsubuga and Musaani have won gold before but Kenyan runners often overshadowed Ugandans in the men’s 42km event. UPDF runner Nsubuga won the very first edition in 2004 but only had local competition to deal with at the time.
Since the door was opened for foreigners, it’s only Musaani, who has denied Kenyans victory – romping to gold in 2008. Nsubuga won’t stand another ‘humiliation’ on home turf even with Kenya entering 19 runners in the gruesome race. “We are not scared of them (Kenyans),” Nsubuga, who has been undergoing intensive training in Kapchorwa for the past two months, said on Friday. “I will try my best to win.”
Since winning the top accolade, Musaani has done so little to raise his profile. Not much is also known about former national record holder Malinga’s current shape but the trio have the necessary experience to outmaneuvre their opponents.
Nonetheless, Kenyans, led by 2007 champion Kiprop Tuwei still start as favourites for a clean sweep of medals. In the mix are Ethiopians Shambel Goro and Alemayehu Belachew, who could spoil the Kenyans’ game plan and play in Uganda’s favour.
It’s in the women’s 42km where Uganda stands an ideal chance with 2006 champion Jane Suuto returning to fight for the title. Suuto, however, will be challenged by Kenyan Jane Nyambura, the winner in 2009. Nyambura has 11 other teammates in tow.
The Kenyans’ entries in the women’s race are three times higher than Uganda’s, more proof that the East African neighbours remain a class apart in grooming and nurturing a good number of runners. The 21km and 10km races (men and women) remain as open as ever. No foreign athletes are allowed to enter the 10km.
sbashaija@ug.nationmedia.com
AllAfrica – All the Time
View post:
Uganda: Nsubuga, Musaani Seek to Reclaim Marathon Titles