2023 World Athletics Champs: First batch of Ugandan athletes sets off

The team will be led by long-distance star Joshua Cheptegei who takes on the national team captain role.

Cheptegei urged upcoming athletes to emulate their hard work and success in the sport as he will lead the team for the last time for a track event.

"As a sport, we would love to see new entrants coming in to keep up the trend (Uganda has set)," Cheptegei said.

Cheptegei will try to defend the 10000m for the second time and compete in the 5000m.

"If all goes well and at the back of my mind, I would love to defend this race. (10,000m)."

"As the reigning champion, my focus is to defend the title, and it will be a sweet time to retire," he added.

The championship starts on Saturday, August 19th while the 10000m final is slated for Sunday, August 20, 2023

Ugandan Team to Budapest

Women: Halima Nakaayi (800m), Winnie Nanyondo (1500m), Peruth Chemutai (3000m SC), Sarah Chelangat (5000m & 10,000m), Prisca Chesang (5000m), Stella Chesang (10,000m), Doreen Chesang (Marathon), Rebecca Chepetegei (Marathon), Mercyline Chelangat (Marathon)

Men: Tarsis Orogot (200m), Tom Dradriga (800m), Salim Abu Mayanja (1500m), Leonard Chemutai (3000m SC), Oscar Chelimo (5000m), Joshua Cheptegei (5000m, 10,000m), Rogers Kibet (10,000m), Joel Ayeko (10,000m), Stephen Kissa (Marathon), Victor Kiplangat (Marathon), Andrew Rotich Kwemoi (Marathon)