Uganda Sport Thread

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Mukasa inspires Uganda to first win Featured
Written by Normad Katende font size
[IMG]http://*****************/images/stories/uganda%20cricket.jpg[/IMG]
Uganda cricket players celebrate in UAE
A captain change might have inspired Team Uganda who put up a notable score to beat Bermuda by 79 runs in Monday’s Division II league action in United Arab Emirates.
Their was basically something wrong with the team after losing to minnows Hong Kong and then failing to put up a notable score against Namibia in the first two of the five games played.
But with the technical committee deciding to rest captain Akber Baig, Uganda recovered with a win after an inspiring display from man of the match Roger Mukasa.
The opening batsman this time put on 33 off 50 balls with Arthur Kyobe (22), Hamzah Saleh (28) before half centuries from Lawrence Ssematimba (66) and Benjamin Musoke (55) helped Uganda set a target of 249 for Bermuda to chase.
Dion Stovelle (2 for 42) and Rodney Trott (2 for 46) tried to limit Uganda but they learnt to keep their wickets.
Uganda’s defense started on a good note when Stovell (10) was run out by Deus Muhumuza while his opening partner David Hemp was caught by Benjamin Musoke off a Daniel Ruyange delivery.
It was after here that Mukasa again struck, dismissing Jason Anderson (38) who was caught by Charles Waiswa.
He then tricked Irvin Romaine (16) to be caught by captain for the day Davis Arinaitwe before trapping Bermuda’s top scorer Lionel Kann (44) before finishing his bowling by trapping Stefan Kelly (02).
Waiswa himself caught Chris Foggo (06) on a return catch and trapped Damalie Bell (08) the last wicket for Uganda to celebrate their first win, and hope that they can win the remaining matches, so that they stay in Division II.

[u.g boy]

Uganda bounce back with Bermuda win
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By Innocent Ndawula (email the author)

Posted Tuesday, April 12 2011 at 00:00
Dubai

Yesterday’s results
Uganda 249/7 Bermuda 175/10
PNG 92/10 Namibia 95/2
UAE 227/9 HongKong 208/10
Today’s fixtures
Hong Kong v PNG
UAE v Uganda
Namibia v Bermuda

Table standings
P W D L Pts Net RR
UAE 3 3 0 0 6 1.09
Namibia 3 2 0 1 4 2.37
Bermuda 3 1 0 2 2 -0.32
Hong Kong 3 1 0 2 2 -0.41
Uganda 3 1 0 2 2 -1.05
PNG 3 1 0 2 2 -1.63

It was a win or bust situation for Uganda and the team opted to live to fight another day by putting up a terrific effort that secured a 74-run win against Bermuda at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai Sports City yesterday.

Wicketkeeper Lawrence Ssematimba was the architect of the win with an unbeaten Man of Match (MOM) knock of 66 runs that helped Uganda set a competitive target of 249 after new skipper Davis Arinaitwe Karashani had won the toss and elected to bat.

Unlike in the previous matches, all the batsmen got starts but Benjamin Musoke, in particular, with an uncharacteristic 55 off 43 for the 91-run fourth wicket partnership with Ssematimba gave his fellow players and handful of fans led by chairman Dr Kato Sebbaale belief that Uganda could actually reign on the day.

Earlier opening batsmen Roger Mukasa (33) , Arthur Kyobe (22) and Hamza Saleh (28) had made clear Uganda’s intentions to get the monkey (losing jinx) off their back by reaching double figures. The Bermudans came out with guns blazing in pursuit of the required target of 250 runs but lost wickets in clusters early on in their chase. The fast-bowling trio of Charles Waiswa, Daniel Ruyange and Deusdedit Muhumuza, who also converted a clinical run out, reduced them to 41 for 4 in 13 overs. And although Jason Anderson (38) and Lionel Cann (44) kept Bermuda's hopes alive with a 74-run partnership, it turned out to be just a last ditch effort when part-time spinner Roger Mukasa Galiwango (4/21) snared them.

And Uganda were off in celebrations as Bermuda folded for 175 runs. “I careless that we won on my captaincy debut. I am happy for every one and fellow Ugandans back home. It was a matter of life and death but we came through. But the battle is still on.

We have to regroup and look for another win,” Arinaitwe said while muting the celebrations and pumping up his side for today’s crunch clash against United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the ICC Global Cricket Academy (GCA 1) oval.


Finally: Uganda beats Bermuda
Monday, 11th April, 2011
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By Charles Mutebi

World Cricket League
Uganda 249/7 Bermuda 175
( Uganda win by 74 runs)
Today: Uganda v UAE 10am

ROGER Mukasa delivered a remarkable all-round performance as an efficient Uganda defeated Bermuda by 74 runs to nail their first victory of the Division 2 World Cricket League.

Mukasa’s 33 off 50 balls were a tiny reflection of what the youngster is renowned for and helped set the tone for the impressive collective batting that lifted Uganda to 249/7 in 50 overs.

Uganda’s innings were founded on an unusual level of consistence displayed by the top five batsmen of the day. Mukasa’s fellow opener Arthur Kyobe scored 22 then Hamza Saleh added 28 before Lawrence Ssematimba hit his match-best 66. Benjamin Musoke then capped it off with 55 off 48 balls as Uganda finished with more runs than they managed in their first two games combined.

Capable of throwing any lead, Uganda’s work was far from done after their innings but Mukasa saved the best for last, taking 4-21 to help clean out Bermuda for 175.

However, it doesn’t get any easier for Martin Suji’s men as they face hosts and unbeaten favourites United Arab Emirates today.

UAE have won all three of their matches and Uganda will need something extraordinary to compete let alone win.

[u.g boy]

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Uganda loses to UAE
Tuesday, 12 April 2011 13:50 Normad Katende

[IMG]http://*****************/images/stories/craig%20races.jpg[/IMG]
Uganda was unlucky in UAE

Uganda put themselves in an awkward and a must win situation after they lost there would be lifeline encounter to United Arab Emirates by 8 wickets.

After beating Bermuda on Monday, it had been anticipated that the win will reignite Uganda’s campaign to stay in the Division II league, but the awful batting they had Tuesday morning did not make matters any better.

First, the return of Captain Akbrr Baig after a day of rest changed nothing after the technical committee decided to change him from the mid order to an opening batsman.

He was out for 1 run after being caught by Saqib Ali off a Shadeep Silva delivery on his 18th ball.

Hamzah Saleh, who replaced him, was run out for a golden duck by Ali, who was wicket keeping for the hosts, while Lawrence Ssematimba, who hit 66 on Monday against Bermuda was bowled by Arshad Ali at 14 off 26 balls, the same runs as Arthur Kyobe in the day’s game.

Only assistant team captain Davis Arinaitwe tried to extend Uganda’s lead, but the maximum he could go was 20 before he was also caught by Ahmed Raza off a Mohammad Tauqir delivery. Frank Nsubuga who usually lifts Uganda made 2 runs from a duck he registered against Bermuda as the team was all out at 86 in 34 overs.

The target was never going to be that tough for the Emirates side, whose opening batsman Amjad Ali saw them race to with an unbeaten 40 in 17.2 overs and eight wickets to spare.

The result leaves Uganda with no option but to win their remaining encounter against Papua New Guinea for them to have any chance of staying in the Division II league and continue enjoying the ICC funding.



Division II World Cricket League

Tuesday results

PNG 217/8, Hong Kong 174

(PNG wins by 43 runs)

Namibia 297/8, Bermuda 211



(Namibia wins by 86 runs)

Uganda 86, UAE 88/2



(UAE wins by 8 wickets)

Thursday fixtures

Hong Kong v Namibia

PNG v Uganda

UAE v Bermuda

[u.g boy]

Uganda lose to UAE in ICC league
Tuesday, 12th April, 2011
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By Charles Mutebi

Division 2 World Cricket League
Uganda 86 UAE 88/2
(UAE win by 8 wickets)
Tomorrow: Uganda v PNG

AFTER the Bermuda breather on Monday, Uganda’s ride of pain at the Division 2 World Cricket League in Dubai was back with an eight-wicket loss to hosts UAE yesterday.

Uganda’s 74-run win over Bermuda had ended a run of two defeats in as many games at the tournament and was the perfect confidence booster ahead of yesterday’s clash with UAE, the only unbeaten team at the six-team event.

Sadly, Uganda would only add to the hosts swagger, offering the softest opposition in four matches. Uganda’s batting attack offered another laughter, thanks in part to the absence of Roger Mukasa, the match-winner against Bermuda.

But Mukasa’s availability would not have compensated for Uganda’s overall batting struggles, which saw them restricted to a paltry 86 in 34.1 overs. Davis Arinaitwe with 20 was Uganda’s best, with Lawrence Ssematimba and Arthur Kyobe each adding 14 apiece.

Ahmed Raza took 4-17 to set up UAE’s easy chase, predictably completed with 32.4 overs to spare.

Amjad Ali scored an unbeaten 40 for UAE, who are through the finals with a game to spare.

Uganda must defeat PNG tomorrow to ensure a top-four finish that would prevent relegation to the third division.


Rugby series receives boost from AAR, K’la Coach
Tuesday, 12th April, 2011
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AAR chief Mark Achola (2nd left) and staff present first aid kit to rugby manager Jacob Bukenya
By Johnson Were

THE Bamburi Rugby Super Series Uganda franchise will have no excuse if they don’t post results in this year’s competition after they were boosted with medical and transport sponsorship.

Rwenzori and Victoria were yesterday handed packages by AAR medical services and Kampala Coaches, a transport bus company. The tournament that will this year involve five sides from Kenya, two from Uganda and one Tanzanian team, kicks off April 30.

According to the bus company marketing manager Craig Inda, they will foot all the transport bills to and from Nairobi during the tournament.

“We are committed to supporting rugby, not only in Kenya but also in Uganda. We are committing Ksh500,000 (about Ush14.5m) in this tournament for the Uganda sides,” Inda disclosed.

The company will also provide training kits and is considering taking up the players’ allowances during this event.

On the other hand AAR will cater for the medical for both players and fans during the home games.

“We are providing everything that caters for the players health comfort on and off pitch during this tournament and our ambulance will be fully equipped to international standards,” general manager Mark Achola stated at a function held at Kyadondo rugby ground.

Rwenzori opens the campaign against Kenya’s Cheetahs away in Nairobi while Victoria faces Buffaloes from the same country at Kyadondo.


Humiliation
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Batsman Roger Mukasa was missed in the embarrasing loss to UAE yesterday

By INNOCENT NDAWULA (email the author)

Posted Wednesday, April 13 2011 at 00:00
Dubai

Yesterday’s results
Uganda 86/10UAE88/2
PNG 217/8Hong Kong 174/10
Namibia297/8Bermuda 211/10

M W L T D Pts
UAE 4 4 0 0 0 8
Namibia 4 3 1 0 0 6
PNG 4 2 2 0 0 4
Hong Kong 4 1 3 0 0 2
Bermuda 4 1 3 0 0 2
Uganda 4 1 3 0 0 2

What a difference 24 hours can make to the hopes of a nation. With just one more victory standing between Uganda and further funding estimated to be $350,000 (Shs840m) from International Cricket Council (ICC), Uganda did not do themselves any favours as they folded meekly for 86 runs and lost to United Arab Emirates (UAE) by eight wickets at the ICC Global Cricket Academy oval here in Dubai yesterday.

The 74-run win against Bermuda on Monday had lifted Uganda to fifth on the six-nation points log and another triumph yesterday would have meant that they retain their position as a Division II Associate nation.
But their choking ways and unpredictable nature means that they remain one hit wonders for now.

Mathematics
“We are on life support. But are still in it mathematically. We just have to come and win our last game against Papua New Guinea on Thurdsay and we will be home and dry,” coach Conrad Shukri summarised what his brigade was going through and the likely permutations.

Although new skipper Davis Arinaitwe won his second successive toss, he learnt that it was not going to be a good day in office when inspirational opening batsman Roger Mukasa Galiwango was ruled out at the eleventh hour with an overstretched muscle in the groin which was likely to hamper his mobility on the field. Former skipper Akbar Baig, who replaced Mukasa, did not fare well with the bat as he was taken out for a pedestrian knock that fetched him only one run off 18 balls.

Arthur Kyobe and Lawrence Ssematimba got 14 apiece, Benjamin Musoke was unluckily given out for 11 whereas Arinaitwe top scored with 20 off 44. Man of the Match Ahmed Raza (4/17) did the damage with his slow spinners whereas Arshad Ali (2/19) and Mohammed Tauqir (2/15) wrapped up the tail. Although Frank Nsubuga (1/15) and Henry Ssenyondo (1/22) snared a wicket each, UAE opener Amjad Ali wrapped up the half-day clash with an unbeaten innings of 40 runs.

Despite the heavy loss, Ugandans will be looking to bury the hatchet soonest after other results went their way leaving them one more chance to fight for survival. Namibia beat Bermuda by 86 runs and PNG overcame Hong Kong by 43 runs thus leaving Uganda with one job to do – to beat PNG tomorrow.

[u.g boy]

FMU in sh77m electronic timer drive
Wednesday, 13th April, 2011
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By Douglas Mazune

FED up with an unreliable manual timing system, 33 drivers have embraced Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU) fundraising sprint for an electronic timing system.

The sprint slated for this Sunday at Lubiri intends to raise 20,000 euro (sh77m) to import the equipment from England.

FMU resolved to purchase an electronic timing system following persistent complaints from competitors about erroneous times.

FMU publicist Juma Nkambwe said the new timing system would be imported immediately if the federation raises the required funds.

“That’s the system we have always wanted. It will come complete with the clocks and the tracking is done automatically,” Nkambwe explained.

Top drivers Wycliff Bukenya (Mitsubishi Evo7), Nasser Mutebi (Subaru N8), Godfrey Lubega (Subaru N8), George Semakula (Subaru N4), Mansur Sanya (Subaru N4) and Andrew Kananura (N14) have already entered the race.

The non-championship race with be spiced up with a motocross race.


Team Uganda staring at relegation monster
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Nsubuga (L) has bad knees while Baig (R) is out of today’s game against Papau New Guinea. PHOTO: E. CHICCO

By INNOCENT NDAWULA (email the author)

Posted Thursday, April 14 2011 at 00:00
Today’s fixtures
PNG v Uganda
H. Kong v Namibia
UAE v Bermuda

Ugandans may feel embarrassed that their cricketers have failed to string together a couple of wins but new national team skipper Davis Arinaitwe is full of faith that his boys can pull through. Arinaitwe insists his injury-plagued side have not lost hope of winning on the last day of the round-robin phase and remain a Division II Associate nation – which attracts lucrative funding from the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Today, Uganda jog onto the ICC Global Cricket Academy oval in Dubai with just one victory and on the brink of being demoted to Division III. Uganda have been raided by injuries with six players not fully fit for the must-win clash against Papua New Guinea.

But with even the opposition writing off Uganda’s chances, Arinaitwe, who top scored with 20 runs in the eight-wicket loss to United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday, feels that the criticism has pumped up his side to deliver.

“Most of the injuries are not so serious but our main concern is Roger Mukasa (groin muscle). Yet we have to play him because he is our match winner,” Arinaitwe said. “This is the biggest match of our lives. We have to win at all costs,” said the 23-year-old captain after the team’s match simulation practice session yesterday.
Mukasa’s fitness will be assessed this morning by team physiotherapist Vivien Namata and there is a likelihood he will play under painkillers, just like some other teammates.

Baig ruled out
Daniel Ruyange (right palm), Frank Nsubuga (knees), Charles Waiswa (side-strain) and Ronald Ssemanda (left knee) might have to take pain-killing injections as Uganda look to stave off the relegation monster. Former skipper Akbar Baig (torn ligament in right hand) has already been ruled out. “We cannot do much about what has happened,” Arinaitwe said about the previous big defeats Uganda have suffered and countless niggles in the camp.

“Our batting has got to come through more than ever. Once we get enough runs on board, all will be good. We are not scared. We are ready to fight and take care of our fate.” Papua New Guinea, who are safe from relegation, will rely heavily on the tactical nous of their Australian backroom staff, captain Rarua Dikana, Hitolo Areni, Chris Amini and hard-hitting opening batsman Tony Ura.

Uganda’s squad

D. Arinaitwe (captain), Benjamin Musoke, Lawrence Ssema-timba (wicket-keeper), R. Mukasa, Arthur Kyobe, Hamza Saleh, Frank Nsubuga, R. Sse-manda, Deus Muhumuza, D. Ruyange, C. Waiswa. 12th man: Raymond Otim.



Robert Madoi: Ugandan cricket in sorry tailspin
Sports
Written by Robert Madoi
Wednesday, 13 April 2011 20:25
Ugandan cricket honchos will be hoping that the country’s lone win over Bermuda in the on-going ICC Division II World Cricket League isn’t a case of papering over the cracks after humiliating losses to Hong Kong, Namibia and United Arab Emirates (UAE) fashioned a bad advert for the game.

Sadly, it appears Ugandan cricket has hit its own wicket – an error of schoolboy proportions by any measure. How the game stooped to such a despicable level is a pretty long tale. But it is worth telling, nonetheless.

This tale started in 2001. Unlike most tales, the prologue to this story was dark and gloomy. It started off with a sex orgy and a falling out. The protagonists of this slimy beginning were fast bowlers Kenneth Kamyuka and Henry Osinde.

Whilst Kamyuka was forced to relinquish the under-19 captaincy because of his involvement in an orgy during the January of 2001, Osinde would – months later – fall out with local cricket bigwigs after he was unceremoniously dropped from the senior national team that was preparing to play in the ICC Trophy.

Ironically, Kamyuka was the party that took Osinde’s slot in the national team. Although this move had all the hallmarks of a failure, it would turn out to be a masterstroke as a slew of man-of-the-match performances from Kamyuka left Team Uganda on the cusp of victory.

It took a well-constructed effort from the United Arab Emirates to stop Uganda in its tracks at the play-off stage. Despite the ‘so close yet so far’ conclusion, Ugandan cricketers were given a heroes’ welcome on their return home. And rightly so. The Ugandan cricket juggernaut was on.

Back in Canada, where the Ugandan cricket team had captured the imagination of many by finishing 10th out of 25 countries, Osinde was unpacking his bags and getting used to the bright neon lights in North America.

Six years later, in 2007, he would become only the third Ugandan (after Sam Walusimbi and John Nagenda’s appearance at the inaugural 1975 event) to play in the fabled ICC Cricket World Cup.

Last month, he became the only Ugandan to feature in more than one World Cup. Heck, Osinde could end up being the only Ugandan to scalp Ricky Ponting, considering that chances of Uganda dating Australia are close to naught.

See, Osinde has played in two World Cups and managed to have Ponting’s number because he switched allegiances to Canada. As the leggy pace bowler was cutting his cricketing teeth in Canada, Uganda was retrogressing.

The performances of Team Uganda in the subsequent ICC Trophy tournaments were harrowing. One failure was hauled on the back of other. Somewhere in between, Canada managed to confirm its Division I status in the World Cricket League. Uganda could only look on with envy.

In 2005 when the cracks in the Ugandan cricket started appearing, UCA – the local cricket governing body – sought the services of Conrad Shukri to arrest a desperate situation. To turn the tide, Shukri espoused unconventional methods. Among these was serenading Team Uganda players R. Kelly’s smash hit I Believe I Can Fly. The ballad was meant to strengthen the Ugandans’ resolve.

Well, India’s backroom staff might have used the narratives of an Arctic explorer, Mike Horn, to solidify their players’ mental fortitude at the just-concluded World Cup, but for Uganda, nonconformist approaches yielded anything but ripple effects at the 2005 ICC Trophy. Maybe Westlife’s Flying Without Wings was resonating in the headphones of Team Uganda players as they sat in the team bus before each match.

In each match, Team Uganda tried to fly only to find that it didn’t have wings. Unsurprisingly, the team lost all but one (USA) of its matches at the tournament. The team had itself to blame when it was consigned to the lower echelons of division III World Cricket League.

Enter Barney Ebrahim Mohammed. A tough disciplinarian, Barney was expected to crack the whip on Uganda’s errant cricketers. He wasted no time. A ban was slapped on listening to music (ask opener Arthur Kyobe) and drinking alcohol was a no-no (ask Emmanuel Isaneez).

There were no more rope-a-dope tactics. The gloves were well and truly off. Who would end up with a bloody nose? Ugandan cricket. Dividends were not forthcoming under Barney. During his era, Kamyuka left for greener pastures in Canada, cricketers with white-collar jobs like Junior Kwebiiha called it quits, and the Lugogo Boys (who warm up to blue-collar jobs) developed a proclivity for going AWOL whilst on international duty.

All this made for a recipe for disaster. Still, Shukri was talked into coming back and, at least, guaranteeing Ugandan cricket that lucrative High Performance grant by finishing in the top four at the ongoing division II World Cricket League. The same problems have, however, persisted.

Against Hong Kong, all 11 Ugandan wickets fell to spin. There were also no partnerships of substance in the innings against Namibia. Elsewhere, the opening gambit reared its ugly head in the eight-wicket loss to the UAE.

Some good could yet offshoot from the tournament, but no-one is holding their breath. Something drastic needs to be done.

[u.g boy]

Uganda fall by one run Featured
Written by Normad Katende
[IMG]http://www.*****************/images/stories/cricket%20chapman.jpg[/IMG]
Uganda failed the Division II test

Uganda lost to Papua New Guinea by a lone run as they were dumped out of the Division II Cricket league in United Arab Emirates Thursday in their thrilling last group match.

A win would have helped them stay in the top division as Hong Kong and Bermuda had lost their encounters. They all had two points from one win but Uganda had a low run rate.

PNG did not get off to an ideal start after electing to bat, losing opener Christopher Kent for a golden duck. The wickets continued to fall in a hurry, as none of the top-order batsmen barring Asad Vala were able to get going.

Once Vala was run out for 43 by Arthur Kyobe, leaving PNG tottering at 131 for 7, it was left to the tail to add respectability to the total. They produced a string of handy cameos to push PNG to 186. Uganda's bowlers shared the wickets around, but left-arm pacer Charles Waiswa was the pick, finishing with 3 for 46.

Uganda's chase got off to a decent start, with opener Roger Mukasa steady at one end. Uganda were 82 for two in the 20th over, before Mukasa's run out for 63 triggered a mini-collapse - the team lost three wickets on 106, to end the 27th over 106 for 6. Rarva Dikana fashioned the mid-innings slide, snagging two wickets in the same over. Davis Arinaitwe (41 not out) and Ronald Ssemanda (24) then staged a revival with a fifty partnership, before two more wickets fell leaving Uganda needing 3 runs off the last ball with one wicket in hand. PNG managed to restrict the last ball to a single, winning the nail-biter by a run. PNG will take on Hong Kong in the third-place play-off on April 15 while Uganda take on Bermuda for the fifth place play off.

In the other game for the day, Namibia pulled off a nerveless chase against Hong Kong to finish second and set up a final showdown with UAE. Hong Kong's decision to bat backfired as they lost Roy Lamsam and Hussain Butt without scoring, against opening bowler Louis Klazinga. Mark Chapman steadied the innings with 31, but Hong Kong's recovery was masterminded by Nizakat Khan who slammed three sixes and seven fours in his 95 off 94 balls. The lower order could not contribute much and they were bowled out for 237, with Klazinga finishing with 5 for 50.

Namibia's chase began well, with the openers adding 42 in 8.4 overs, but three quick wickets put them on the back foot. Gerrie Snyman and Raymond van Schoor steadied soaked the pressure with half-centuries and their 91-run stand put Namibia on course, though the required-rate began to rise. Louis van der Westhuizen calmed the nerves by slugging two fours and two sixes in his 36 off 20 balls, as Namibia won with an over to spare.

Having confirmed their spot in the finals, UAE completed their league commitments with a comprehensive win against Bermuda at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. UAE chose to bat and their top-order chipped in with significant contributions to push the score to 257. Amjad Ali was the only batsman to score a half-century, while Saqib Ali contributed 42. Fine other batsmen were dismissed in the 20s, but ensured the momentum never flagged. Irving Romaine was the pick of the bowlers, as he claimed 6 for 37.

Dion Stovell anchored Bermuda's chase with 77 runs, but the rest of the batting caved in against some incisive bowling from Arshad Ali, Ahmed Raza and Nasir Aziz who combined to pick 9 for 116 in 29 overs. Bermuda's reply folded in the 48th over, as they fell 43 runs short.

Courtesy of ICC



UCC sinks sh15m in open Featured
Written by Normad Katende
[IMG]http://www.*****************/images/stories/ucc%20badminton1.jpg[/IMG]
Showing off the UCC winner's prizes

Wilson Tukire and Margaret Nankabirwa will be the top seeds in the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) badminton championships that starts Friday at Sharing Hall Nsambya. The finals will be held Sunday at Kampala Club.
UCC has invested sh15m in the tournament, which started with the introduction of the game in Northern and Eastern Uganda in the last two weeks. The best performers in these events will also be competing in the national event, where the top performers will share out sh2.5m bulk prize Competition will be in the singles, doubles and mixed doubles for the open while the primary and post primary schools will compete in age groups where they will be able to win trophies.
The other money went into logistics, most especially holding training camps upcountry and hiring the venues.
Tukire and Nankabirwa are the defending champions of the 3rd edition that was launched Thursday by Fred Otunnu Okot, the communication and consumer affairs manager of UCC.
“We successfully introduced the game in Gulu and Mbale and will have the best players from these camps taking part in the national competition. Our dream is to hold regional events were the top players will qualify for the national event,” said Otunnu.
Tukire will be up against the other top four seeds in Brian Ssuuna, Brian Okumu and Ian Ssenoga, while Nankabirwa will also be fighting to increase her dominancy against other women top players in Shamim Bangi, Daisy Nakalyango and Jovia Kyomuhendo.


Top runners to miss trial Featured

Written by Normad Katende
[IMG]http://www.*****************/images/stories/negesa%20annet.jpg[/IMG]
Annet Negesa will miss the national trial

Uganda top runner will miss Saturday’s national trial, as they will be heading to Kisii; Eastern Kenya for the Athletics Kenya weekend meets. The 4th national track and field trial is set for Namboole stadium Saturday.
The runners mostly from the eastern districts of Kapchorwa and Bukwo have agreed with their managers to compete against the Kenyans, who are reaching their peak as their season started earlier.
The Uganda Athletics federation secretary Beatrice Ayikoru confirmed that they have already written to their Kenyan counterparts, clearing the athletes to compete in their event.
International regulations demand that any athlete competing in a foreign country has to be cleared by him mother federation.
The meet is also expected to give steeplechase athletes a chance to compete in the event, since they can not do it in Kampala, as Namboole, the only venue with the steeplechase facilities is still locked to athletics competition.
Among the athletes that have been cleared to compete in the Kenyan event are Moncton World Junior athletic championships bronze medallists Annet Negesa (800m) and Jacob Araptany (3000m SC).
Others are Viola Chemos (5000m) Jackline Cherutwo (5000m) and Dorcus Chesang (5000m/3000m SC), Jacob Araptany, Emmanuel Sasia and Moses Kiptera (1500m), Peter Kibet, Daniel Rotich and Moses Kwemoi (5000m/10000m) andBen Siwa (5000m/steeplechase).



Uganda discussed in IAAF Featured

Written by Normad Katende
[IMG]http://www.*****************/images/stories/lamine%20diack.jpg[/IMG]
Lamine Diack shares a moment with UAF head Otuchet and Gunter

The Kids programme initiated in Uganda by Gunter Lange was among the items discussed at the international athletics governing body-IAAF executive meeting held in Daegu, Korea on Monday.
The development of the programme, which will on Saturday and Sunday continue with holding activities at Shoprite and Ntinda, was reported as successful to the council, which was reviewing the preparation of the World Championships that are set to be held in the same city later this year.
“The spirit and simplicity of the IAAF Kids’ Athletics Programme has made it very popular as a way of introducing youngsters aged 6-12 years to athletics in a team based environment which allows them to have fun but also learn the basic skills of running, jumping and throwing, using special “Kids Athletics kits” of equipment,” read part of the release from the IAAF.
The release noted among others the convention that was signed between IAAF and the education ministry to set up kids athletics in all schools in the country.
The convention has already started working with the teaching of over 4,000 sports teachers across the country under the Germany development fund. More teachers will be trained in kids athletics before the primary school athletics event set for Kabolore April 23-25 starts.
“We are also introducing the programme as a unit in all sports teachers’ school. If we get more teachers trained in this, then we will sure have the best out put,” said Gunter Lange.
Also Singapore, Tanzania, Belarus, Algeria and Comoros were noted for their effort in promoting kids athletics.



New Lease Of Life!Hared Source of the Nile Marathon Faces Changes to Increase competition!

Hajji Yusuf Noordin (L) one of the directors in Hared Petroleum Limited addressing guests during the launch of the third edition of the Source of the Nile Marathon in Jinja on April 12.

By Katongole Kiwanuka
Road constructions have prompted the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) to revise the route of the 3rd edition of the Hared Source of the Nile Marathon set for May 22 in Jinja town.
UAF vice president – technical Faustino Kiwa told Pepper Sport on Tuesday at the launching ceremony that a new route will be out tomorrow (Friday).
“We have been told that there are several road works in Jinja town and by the time of the marathon a section near Walukuba that was used last year will be inaccessible. So, we’ll definitely have a new route,” said Kiwa.
He also said that they want to look for a starting point that can accommodate 3000 runners instead of the one that was used last year at Health First Gym which looked overcrowded. The marathon could also gain an international status next year, if it complies with anti-doping measures this year.
The General Manager of Hared Petroleum Nurudin Yusuf added that they target Shs50m to be able to donate Ear, Nose and Throat equipment to Jinja Main Hospital. He said: “If we manage to register 4000 runners, our target would be achieved to save patients in Jinja incurring extra travel costs to Mulago.”
Registration for the marathon started yesterday at all Hared filling stations and selected super markets till May 8.
The winner of the 21km challenge will bag shs2m while the 10km victor 1.5m for both men and women categories. The Shs2m corporate prize will be donated to charity.

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The Castle Lite Uganda Tennis Open 2011 - Duncan Mugabe Champion

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castle lite Friday Night Lights - Basketball
FNL Semi-Finals - 8th April 2011














































perfomances

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Mugabe gains from American training camp
Published on April 16, 2011 by The Razor Newspaper
By Phillip Corry

Uganda’s top tennis player Duncan Mugabe, who is training with some of the sport’s top university and college stars in San Francisco has hailed the work and experience that he is getting in the United States. “I am working hard here with some of the best tennis players at university and college level and I believe its benefiting my game,” Mugabe said in a message. “My serve, shots, return and back hand has improved.”


Mugabe is undergoing conditioning and training in the US. (Razor Photo)

Mugabe is in San Francisco undergoing conditioning system under the watchful guidance of high performance expert and coach Mark Wellington. The Ugandan will return next month and start his quest to storm back into the top 400 on the Association of Tennis Professionals rankings.
Mugabe is currently unranked on the ATP due to inactivity on the professional circuit. His last ranking was 1,732 in February this year.
The tennis ace aims to break into the top 400 in the International Tennis Federation (ITF) ranking at the end of this season to be eligible to compete in the Challengers.

At Challengers level a player earns US$2000 (Shs4.8m) for every round won, and outright in the final comes with a US$20,000 (Shs48m) package. At the ATP level a win in a round fetches US$10,000 and victory at least US$100,000.

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[u.g boy]

Australian hammers Peter Okhello into KO
Monday, 18th April, 2011
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By JAMES BAKAMA

UGANDAN heavyweight Peter Ishimaru Okhello suffered one of his worst losses in a knock-out defeat to Australian Alex Leapai on Sunday.

Okhello was knocked out in the third round of the scheduled 12 round contest at the Jakarta International Expo Center.

Okhello was fighting on an undercard of the Chris John versus Daud Yordan fight. Chris John retained the WBA featherweight title.

It was Okhello’s sixth defeat and second loss by knockout since 1997. He has 20 wins, 17 of which are by knockout.



Heathens still hungry for success
Monday, 18th April, 2011
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Heathens players celebrate on saturday. But they say they will not relent until they make a season clean sweep
By JOHNSON WERE
and DOUGLAS MAZUNE

Champions 2011
Premier League: Heathens
Women: Thunderbirds
Reserve League: Stallions
Golden Boot: A. Kinene
Top Scorer: J. Keremundu

IF rivals thought dominant Heathens were about to ease off after clinching the Nile Special Premier Rugby League title, the champions have no good news for them.

Heathens that won all their 14 games to capture a third title in a row reckon that this is just the beginning of an ambitious season.

Heathens swept the league, Uganda Cup and the national sevens and Hima 10s in 2009 and are eager to repeat the feat.

“The league title is down and we are looking at the next title, the Uganda Cup. We shall go one after the other and hopefully wind up the season on a high,” coach Brian Tabaruka said.

“We shall work together as a team and we hope we will remain together because I don’t think there is any player who would want to leave a winning outfit,” Tabaruka added.

Heathens have been so dominant this season that they won 13 of their 14 games with a bonus point and underlined their superiority when they won the league with a game in hand.

They turned up to the final game against Pirates with the title already secured and went on to win it just to maintain a 100% record.

While Heathens closed for another clean sweep, their rivals Kobs, Pirates and Mongers have taken their fight to the other competitions.

“We were developing our schools players to suit in club rugby and I think they will prove it out in the Uganda Cup,” Pirates coach Brian Makalama stated.

Kobs, the only club that won the league title back to back four times in a row (1997-2001) are also eyeing the Uganda Cup.

“We have tested our boys and I’m confident Heathens will fall in both the Uganda Cup and the 7s,” club chairman Martin Kasasira said.


Mawa wins Mehta Open at the death
Monday, 18th April, 2011
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By DOUGLAS MAZUNE

S. Mawa 69 70 139
F. Wanzala 73 66 139
E. Opio 69 74 143
J. Waigo 75 71 146
I. Odokonyero 77 71 148
B. Willy 73 75 148
G. Ocici 74 76 150
R. Tumusiime 83 67 150

SAID Mawa burst into life in the closing round to wrestle the Mehta Golf Open title from Fred Wanzala in Lugazi on Sunday.

Mawa who was four strokes behind day one joint leaders Wanzala and Emma Opio, fired a second round four under par 66 to square off with his Jinja Club friend Wanzala on 139.

Mawa birdied the 16th, 17th and 18th holes to tie the contest as Emma Opio slipped to third position.

The stalemate resulted into a sudden death play-off on hole 18 which Mawa won when he shot a par while Wanzala bogeyed.

“I thought I was going to win when l led by two strokes at hole 16 but those bogeys affected me so much.

I actually lost on it 16th, 17th and 18th holes. I enjoyed the high level of competition. The best man won,” Opio remarked.

Opio completed a top three finish for Jinja Golf Club members with 143, four strokes off the pace.

John Waigo was fourth and Ian Odokonyero shared fifth place with Beus Willy on 148.


NIC, Kitende retain netball titles
Monday, 18th April, 2011
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By DAVID NAMUNYALA

National Netball Rally
Results
Clubs
NIC 10 points
UPDF 8
Police 6
Institutions
Mubende NTC 6
KU 4
UCU 4
Secondary Schools
Kitende 24 Buddo SS 21
Primary Schools
Nakirebe A 15 Nakirebe B 12

INSURANCE side NIC and St. Mary’s Kitende retained their national netball rally titles in the clubs and secondary schools categories respectively over the weekend at the Kasaana ground in Mubende.

Flavia Nakanwagi, Harriet Layet and Racheal Nanyonga were the toast for NIC as they led their side to their seventh title in a row.

The two-day rally saw the insurers win all their five games. They beat UPDF 11-10 in their opening encounter as they went on to rout home side CBS Fans’ Club 27-0.

They beat Police, Nile Star and finally humiliated KCC 17-7 to retain the crown with an overall 10 points.

Army side, UPDF finished second with eight points and Police come third.

But Kitende had to grit their teeth before overcoming fierce rivals Buddo SS 24-21.

Mubende NTC won the institutions’ crown as Nakirebe took the primary schools title.


UVF grassroot plan gets boost
Monday, 18th April, 2011
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UGANDA Volleyball Federation (UVF) grassroot development programme has received a boost with another youth training programme from the world body.

The Volleyball Cooperation Programme that targets to impart skills to young players is due on May 2-6 at Youth Sharing Centre, Nsambya.

The course, to be facilitated by Ethiopian instructor Alemaye Shoatatek, is expected to involve 40 new players in the sport, according to UVF vice president Nason Bwesigye.


Bangi ends Nankabirwa’s dominance
Monday, 18th April, 2011
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Winners display trophies
UCC Badminton Open
Winners; Men
Singles: Wilson Tukire
Doubles: Tukire/Mayega
Mixed: Tukire/Nankabirwa
U-19: Daniel Muhiggo
U-15: Davis Senono
U-13: Brian Kasirye
U-10: Expedito Emudu
Women
Singles: Shamim Bangi
Doubles:
Bangi/Nankabirwa
U-19: Brenda Awori
U-15: Brenda Awori
U-13: Suzan Asano
U-10: Bridget Nakasi
By Norman Katende

SHAMIM Bangi pulled up a surprise win against women top seed Margaret Nankabirwa in the Uganda Communications Commission badminton Open, while Wilson Tukire had to come from behind to win the men’s title.

In the finals at Kampala Club yesterday, Bangi recovered from a set down to win the next two 21-13, 21-18, and ended Nankabirwa’s three year reign as women champion.

The two later combined to win the doubles after beating the pair of Rose Nakalya and Norah Nassimbwa in straight sets.

“I have been training hard. I was nervous in the first set but after that I settled,” she said after winning the event.

In the men’s event, Tukire had to fight hard before taking the title in straight sets against Brian Suuna.
After winning the first set 21-11, Tukire rallied in the second but could not catch up until the deciding set which he won.

However, two blunders by Suuna brought Tukire back into the game.

He forced Suuna into shooting off before killing off the game at 21-19.
Brenda Awori won both the girls’ U-15 and U-19 age group category titles


Kiprotich sets new marathon record
Monday, 18th April, 2011
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Race organisers congratulate Stephen Kiprotich after winning a marathon in Holland
By Norman Katende

1. S. Kiprotich 2.07.20
2. Julius Korir (KEN) 2.09.45
3. G. Girma (ETH) 2.10.17
National trials
Women:
100m: E. Nanziri 12.0
200m: J. Bayigga 24.7
800m: H. Nakaayi 2:12.9
1500m: S. Chelangat 4:50.7
3000m: N.Cheptoek10:05.5
L/J: V. Babirye 5.45
Men
100m: G. Akena (UCU) 10.9
200m: A. Ngaimoko 21.5
400m: Ngaimoko (KIU) 47.0
800m: R. Musagala 1:51.7
1500m: Chemonges 3:46.0
2. R. Musagala 3:49.0
5000m: A. Mande 14:08.9

STEPHEN Kiprotich threw off his pace setting jacket and raced to win the Eschande Marathon in Netherlands on Sunday.

He consequently, in his maiden marathon, set a national record of 2 hours 7 minutes and 20 seconds, a feat that also won him a place at the World Championships due July in South Korea. The qualifying time stands at 2:17:00.

The previous record of 2:08:24 was set by Daniel Chepyegon in Frankfurt last year.

Kiprotich, Uganda’s top performer at the senior men World Cross Country, had been entered in the Dutch event as a pace setter, and was supposed to drop off at the 30km mark of the 42.198km race.

However, on reaching the mark, he felt he was still strong and his manager told him to go on at 34km and gauge his strength.

By the 35km, he was already in charge and finished with a new national record.

At home, Justine Bayigga was again beaten by Emily Nanziri in the women 100m.



Negesa in season best Featured
Written by Normad Katende font size Print E-mail Be the first to comment!
[IMG]http://*****************/images/stories/negesa%20annet.jpg[/IMG]
Negesa is fast improving
Annet Negesa improved her season’s best by two seconds in the Athletics Kenya weekend meet at Kisii, western Kenya Saturday.
Though failing the test, coming home second in the women 800m event, her time of two minutes 8 seconds was more promising in her second track competition in the season.
She had run 2:11.7 in her first meet at the national trial at Namboole a fortnight ago.
“It was not a tough race. We ran together until she printed. I have not worked on my speed but I am now in camp,” she said yesterday, after coming back from the event.
“I am targeting to improve on my personal best (2:02.27) and then try to set a new national record (2:00.88),” said Negesa.
Other Ugandan also competed in various events with the steeplechase runners putting up good times; including Dorcus Chesang (10:23) who finished second in the women 3000mSC event- her first competition in the event. The time was just over a minute from the national record held by Dorcus Inzikuru at 9:15.04.
Others who competed in the meet are Viola Chemos (5000m; 16:44), Solomon Mutai (5000m; 14:52), Jacob Araptany (3000mSC; 8:51), Peter Kibet (5000m; 14:23), Ben Siwa (3000mSC; 9:05), Daniel Rotich (10000m; 29:50) and Kibet Soyekwo (1500m; 2:48).
Action continued at the local scene with Justine Bayigga being beaten by Emily Nanziri in the 100m, but Bayigga also won the 200m beating Nanziri.
Women:
100m
1. Nanziri Emily (Police) 12.0
2. Bayigga Justine (Police) 12.5
3. Babirye Vianney (Ndejje) 12.6

200m
1. Bayigga Justine (Police) 24.7
2. Nanziri Emily (Police) 25.1
3. Arao Martha (Prisons) 26.7

800m
1. Nakaayi Halima (Bombo) 2:12.9
2. Naijuka Rebecca (Standard) 2:13.7
3. Nanyondo Connie (Rwenzori) 2:19.7

1500m
1. Chelangat Sylvia (Poilce) 4:50.7
2. Migadde Caroline (UPDF) 4:53.9
3. Lometo Catherine (Moroto) 4:57.4

3000m
1. Cheptoek Nelly (Police) 10:05.5
2. Nanziri Harriet (Rwenzori) 10:14.3
3. Chesang Grace (UPDF) 10:25.2

Long Jump
1. Babirye Vianney (Ndejje) 5.45
2. Oroma Emmanuella (Rwenzori) 4.85
3. Apollo Eunice (Prisons) 4.64

Men
100m
1. Akena Geofrey (UCU) ht-1 10.9 (1st)
2. Bidusu Hamid (Ndejje) ht-1 11.2 (2nd)
3. Nyeko Geofrey (Prisons) ht-2 11.2 (3rd)

200m
1. Ngaimoko Ali (KIU) ht-1 21.5 (1st)
2. Tugumisirize Emmanuel (Nkumba) ht-1 (2nd)
3. Latigo Kassim (UCU) ht-2 22.1 (2nd)

400m
1. Ngaimoko Ali (KIU) 47.0
2. Tugumisirize Emmanuel (Nkumba) 47.7
3. Demus Praise (UCU) 48.1

800m
1. Musagala Ronald (Standard) 1:51.7
2. Adar Jimmy (Prisons) 1:51.9
3. Mayanja Abu (Standard) 1:53.7

1500m
1. Chemonges Fredrick (UPDF) 3:46.0
2. Musagala Ronald (Standard) 3:49.0
3. Cheptoch Benard (Elgon) 3:53.3

5000m
1. Mande Abdallah (UPDF-Airforce) 14:08.9
2. Arapsudi Fred (Police) 14:23.5
3. Chelangat Kenneth (UPDF) 14:35.2

Long Jump
1. Okot Alfred (Prisons) 6.75
2. Onen Geofrey (Gulu) 6.59
3. Achila Martin (Police) 6.43

Shot Put
1. Opio Oscar (Prisons) 12.53
2. Odong Martin (Prisons) 12.30
3. Wakabi Simon Peter (UCU) 11.87




Bangi downs Nankabirwa Featured
Written by Normad Katende
[IMG]http://*****************/images/stories/web%20uss%20winners.jpg[/IMG]
Winners show off their trophies
Shamim Bangi ended women top seed Margaret Nankabirwa dominance by beating her in the Uganda Communications Commission Badminton Open that ended Sunday.
Wilson Tukire came from 4 points down, to beat Brian Ssuunain straight sets for the men’s title.
In the finals held at Kampala Club yesterday, Bangi recovered from a set down 17-21, to win the next two sets 21-13, 21-18, and end Nankabirwa’s three year dominancy as a women champion, threatening her top rank in future tournament.
They however joined efforts to win the doubles trophy after beating the duo of Rose Nakalya and Norah Nassimbwa in straight sets.
“I have been training hard. I was nervous in the first set but after I settled,” she said after winning the event.
In the men’s event, Wilson Tukire had to fight hard before taking the title in straight sets against Brian Suuna.
After winning the first set 21-11, Tukire found himself fighting at 7-11 in the second set; he pushed on but was still behind at 13-16 and looked like they would go in for a decisive set.
However, two blunders from Suuna, first serving in the net to pull him up at 15-16 and then shot in the net for them to tie at 18-18.
With the pressure transferred to Suuna, Tukire managed to force him into shooting off before killing off the game at 21-19.
“The pressure was on him since I had won the first set,” Tukire said after.
Brenda Awori won both the girls’ U-15 and U-19 titles in the age group category.

UCC Open winners
Men
Singles: Wilson Tukire
Doubles: Tukire/Mayega
Mixed: Tukire/Nankabirwa
U-19: Daniel Muhiggo
U-15: Davis Senono
U-13: Brian Kasirye
U-10: Expedito Emudu

Women
Singles: Shamim Bangi
Doubles:Bangi/Nankabirwa
U-19 : Brenda Awori
U-15: Brenda Awori
U-13: Suzan Asano
U-10: Bridget Nakasi




Kiprotich in new record Featured
Written by Normad Katende
[IMG]http://*****************/images/stories/web%20kiprotich1.jpg[/IMG]
Kiprotich sets a new record
Stephen Kiprotich set a new national record as he took part in his maiden full marathon Sunday in Netherlands. He beat a field of Kenyan and Ethiopian runners.
Having been entered as a pace setter to build on his endurance as he prepares to compete in the marathon races, Koprotich’s who was taking part in the Eschande Marathon in Netherlands raced to victory instead to the surprise of both his managers and himself.
He set a national record of 2 hours 7 minutes and 20 seconds and also qualified for the World Championships due late July in Daegu, Korea (2:17:00).
He broke Daniel Chepyegon’s record of 2:08:24 which was set in Frankfurt last year. Alex Malinga had set the earlier record of 2:12:12 at the World Championships in Helsinki, Finland in 2005.
Kiprotich, had been entered as a pace setter, and was supposed to drop off at the 30km mark after helping the field of other runners, mostly Kenyans and Ethiopians to improve on their time in the 42.198km race.
However, on reaching the mark, he was still growing strong and his manager told him to go on at 34km and gauge his strength.
By the 35km, he had already started taking charge and his manager told him to continue, reaching home with a new national record.
“When we decided that he should finish, that's when he took off! He ran in the front from start till finish! I hope this will encourage a new generation of marathon runners,” said his manager Jurie Van Dee Velden after the marathon.

The results
1 Stephen Kiprotich (uga) 2.07.20
2 Julius Korir (ken) 2.09.45
3 Gezagahn Girma (eth) 2.10.17
4 Samson Barmao (ken) 2.10.21
5 Cosmas Koech (ken) 2.11.41
6 Gemechu Worku (eth) 2.12.03
7 Cosmas Kigen (ken) 2.12.35
8 Justus Mebur (ken) 2.13.15
9 Alebachew Debas (eth) 2.13.37
10 Matthew Koech (ken) 2.14.28
11 Philemon Tarbei (ken) 2.15.47
12 Stephan Kurui (ken) 2.17.36
13 Georgios Karavidas (gre) 2.18.58
14 Willy Kimutai (ken) 2.20.13
15 Sam Landman (ned) 2.32.04

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Ndejje send pair to world varsity games
Published on April 19, 2011 by The Razor Newspaper

By John Wandera

Ndejje University’s Sarah Nambawa and Joseph Kibet are assured of their participation at a world ganes event in China due in August.
The duo received air tickets from the World University governing body Fisu to take part in this year’s games in China.

The air tickets were allocated to the athletes through the National University Sports Federation of Uganda (NUSFU) under an arrangement which show the body secretary Patrick Ssebuliba’s transport worries catered for.


LONG STRIDE: Sarah Nambawa during the Commonwealth Games

“Nambawa and Kibet are part of the 25-team squad named for the World University Championship in August,” revealed NUSFU official Vincent Kisenyi at Ndejje on April 16, during the launch of this year’s edition of the Inter-University Games due in December.
Nambawa is the Africa senior Women triple jump champion and a former student at Ndejje.

She recently broke her own national record when she jumped 14.07m outdoing the 13.95m performance she set during the Boston-Moon invitational in Nashville, Tennessee in United States of America. At the same function, Prof Gordon Wavamunno, auctioned Nambawa’s portrait at Shs3.5m. The money went into the coffers of the Inter-University Games’ organising committee, who need Shs85m to successfully host the event in December.

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Rained Out Finals Friday night lights












































the heavy rains that postponed the final








Kiprotich leads Asmara team Featured
Written by Normad Katende
[IMG]http://*****************/images/stories/kiprotich%20zakaria.jpg[/IMG]
Kiprotich will be seeking for more medals

Upcoming runner and world youth Olympic Games 2000m steeplechase bronze medalist, Zachariah Kiprotich, 17, will lead Uganda’s assault at the East Africa Youth Championships due later this month in Asmara, Eritrea.
The national athletics federation has named a team of four runners for the event that is due April 29-30.

The runners were selected basing on their past performance in both national and international events, most especially after the two national trials that were held at the Namboole outside tartan track.
“They are the best in that category,” explained the national athletics federation secretary Beatrice Ayikoru yesterday.
Kiprotich will be competing in his traditional 2000mSC and also the 3000m flat race in the two day event.

He will be joined by 200m and 400m women runner Halimah Nakaayi, who has been training in how to run in curves, after twice being disqualified for stepping in the curve at the World Youth Olympics Games.

Others on the team are Philip Kipyeko (2000mSC, 3000m), Nancy Cheptegei (2000mSC, 3000m).
The team is set to depart for the games after the Easter weekend.




Uganda in world quarters Featured
Written by Normad Katende ment!
[IMG]http://*****************/images/stories/a%20rollball.jpg[/IMG]
team Uganda atthe opening ceremony

A heart trick from Bob Nantalagga against Hong Kong was enough to send Uganda to the quarterfinals of the World Roll ball championships that are taking place in Pune, India.

Nantalagga was on form in the new sport, which is a combination of skating, handball and basketball skills, to send Uganda to the top of the Group B table ahead of their clash with a more experienced England team.

Uganda started their campaign by beating Tanzania 1—0 courtesy of Nantalagga again in their first match that was played on Monday to keep their perfect start and squeeze into the quarterfinals. The top two in the four country groups advance to the quarterfinals.
“We will go all the way,” said Peninah Kabenge the team manager of the team that arrived late for the event.

Pool A: India, Kenya, Sweden, U.A. E
Pool B: Great Britain, Hong Kong, Tanzania, Uganda
Pool C: Denmark, Bangladesh, Belgium, China
Pool D: Netherlands, Malaysia, Belarus, Nepal
Roll ball World Champs
Tanzania 0 Uganda 1
Uganda 3 Hong Kong 0
Today
Uganda v England

[u.g boy]

Rugby seals 3-year SuperSport deal
Friday, 22nd April, 2011
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Keremundu with his accolade
By DOUGLAS MAZUNE
and JOHNSON WERE

THE 2010 MVP Jude Keremundu like many a superstar has enhanced his looks with dreadlocks. However, the Heathens star will soon have more reason to mind about style when SuperSport starts televising Ugandan rugby.

Keremundu, who was recognized for his 2010 achievements at Sheraton Hotel on Thursday night wore even a broader smile when Uganda Rugby Union boss William Blick announced he was on the verge on signing a three-year contract with the South African pay television. SuperSport signed a similar deal with Uganda Super League midweek.

“I have delivered on the local scene and my focus is to help Uganda achieve at international level with much emphasis on wining the CAR Cup and qualifying for the 2015 World Cup, “Keremundu stated.

Keremundu beat teammate Benon Kiiza and former Impis star now with Pirates Marlon Ondiege.

Thunderbird’s Christine Kizito won the women MVP Award for second time in a row, beating Helen Gizamba, Charlotte Mudoola (Black Panthers) and teammate Brenda Kayiyi.

Vision Group Johnson Were emerged best journalist, while Heathens’ Brian Tabaruka was voted Best coach and Denis Anguyo was best Referee.

The deal will cover major events
Blick, who had what he described as a very fruitful meeting with the pay television officials in Kampala expects to receive a contract after the Easter holiday and a formal signing ceremony would be organised.

“It’s a big step in right direction. I am 100% sure about our impending partnership with them,” an elated Blick explained in a separate interview yesterday.

They will start with live broadcast of the Four Nations tournament involving Uganda, Zimbabwe, Madagascar and Ivory Coast in Kampala due June 13-18.

Uganda Cup, Seven circuit, a monthly rugby magazine and selected league games would be televised and all Cranes international matches. A live game costs no less than $100,000 (sh239m).

Last season, SuperSport televised the Uganda-Kenya Elgon Cup game.

“I am glad we have virtually come to a conclusion,” Blick stated.

Nile Special Rugby Awards
MVP Men:
Jude Keremundu-Heathens
MVP Women:
C.Kizito –Thunderbirds
Upcoming Men:
Philip Pario-Buffaloes
Upcoming female:
Regina Athieno-B/Panther
Golden Boot:
Benon Kiiza -Heathens
Best Journalist:
Johnson Were-Vision Group
Best Coach:
Brian Tabaruka-Heathens

[u.g boy]

Ekiring up by 400 places
Monday, 25 April 2011 16:23 Normad Katende 0 Comments
[IMG]http://www.*****************/images/stories/edwin%20ekiring2.jpg[/IMG]
Ekiring has been on form


Uganda’s top seed Edwin Ekiring’s performance in international events, including the Netherlands Open, were he was eliminated in the second round, has seen him jump up 400 places in the Badminton World Federation rankings.
Ekiring, who was ranked 712th by the beginning of March with only 530 points has been able to improve his ranking to 279 points with 3550 points, after his good performance at a number of international tournaments he has competed in.

“My target is to be among the 100 top ranked players and I am fighting to achieve that. The more tournaments I participate in, the more points I win and the better my ranks,” said Ekiring, who was happy with the great improvement.

“I am training hard. I do not want to slip any further,” he told The New Vision yesterday.

Ekiring’s top points were earned in the Uganda International and Iran Fajr International, where he reached the quarterfinal stage getting 1370 and 1520 points respectively, to lift him higher.

He is being sponsored by the international Olympic Solidarity as he fights to qualify for the London 2012 Olympic Games.
The better his ranking in the world, the more chances he has to be invited for the Olympics Games.




Ekiring in main draw Featured
Written by Normad Katende
[IMG]http://www.*****************/images/stories/edwin%20ekiring.jpg[/IMG]
Ekiring in action in one of the events

Uganda’s top seed Edwin Ekiring’s performance in international events has earned him a main draw entry at the Portuguese International, which is part of the European Badminton circuit.
This is the first time Ekiring has been able to go into a main draw of such an international tournament. He has always been fighting through the qualification rounds.

The event, which earns athletes points to qualify for the top world events, including the London 2012 Olympic Games started Thursday with the athletes that are to play the qualifiers to the main draw. Ekiring starts action on Friday.

Ekiring, who was ranked 712th by the beginning of March with only 530 points has been able to improve his ranking to 279 position with 3550 points, after his good performance at a number of international tournaments he has competed in.
“It is good that I am in the main draw. This shows that my game is improving.

“My target is to be among the 100 top ranked players and I am fighting to achieve that. The more tournaments I participate in, the more points I win and the better my ranks,” said Ekiring, who was happy with the great improvement.

Ekiring’s top points were earned in the Uganda International and Iran Fajr International, where he reached the quarterfinal stage getting 1370 and 1520 points respectively, to lift him higher.

He is being sponsored by the international Olympic Solidarity as he fights to qualify for the London 2012 Olympic Games.
The better his ranking in the world, the more chances he has to be invited for the Olympics Games.




Ekiring Off To Portugal!


Ekiring.

By Mubiru Michael.
Uganda Badminton top seed Edwin Ekiring hopes to use this weekend’s Portuguese International Championships in Caldas de Rainha, Portugal to prepare for the Olympics.

He told Pepper Sport before he flew out of the country that the strong nature of the tournament is crucial for his form. Action kicks off today till May 1st.

[u.g boy]

Kassim Ouma keen on title fight
Published on April 29, 2011 by The Razor Newspaper

BY FRANK SERUGO

Former IBF light middle world champion and southern California-based Ugandan boxer Kassim Ouma (27-7-1, 17 KOs) has abandoned use of cell phone in camp to concentrate on his upcoming title shot. The former child soldier, whose earlier attempts at this level were futile, has embarked on serious training ahead of his June engagement.


Kassim Ouma

Ouma, whom The Razor contacted online, admitted: “I am not with my phones, I am out for a mission.” Ouma will face WBA middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin (20-0, 17 KOs) on June 18 at the Arena Roberto Duran, Panama City, Panama.

Ouma had almost been written off after registering five out of six fights in his career by early 2010.

Ouma will enter this fight as the underdog but his manager Charlie Perez and Ruben Castanon vow not count him out. “This will definitely be a tough fight for Ouma but it will be equally as tough for Golvkin. I hope he and his team is not looking at how many losses Ouma has because this Ouma is a much better and focused fighter,” said Castanon.





Bogere lands USBA title shot
Published on April 29, 2011 by The Razor Newspaper

Uganda’s undefeated professional pugilist, Sharif ‘The Lion Warrior’ Bogere, has set his eyes on a bigger scalp in the sport after landing a title shot. “I had a fight fall through because I was supposed to fight John Molina, but that hasn’t killed my spirit and will to fight,” Bogere said in a statement. “My focus now is on my up-coming fight on May 13.”

The fight will be the main headline bout and will be shown live on Shobox from the Buffalo Bill’s Star Arena, Primm, Nevada. The undefeated Las Vegas-based Ugandan prize fighter will be challenging United States Boxing Association lightweight champion Raymundo Beltran from Mexico.

It is the first major step for the Ugandan to claim glory as he seeks to fight more big stars in his division. If the Ugandan wins, he will become a top contender to fight for the International Boxing Federation title in his division against Miguel Vazquez, the category’s champion.

His promoters, Golden Boy, had negotiations with former WBO/Nabo lightweight champion John Molina’s team fall through after both camps failed to agree on the purse. Bogere’s record stands at 19-0, 12 KOs while Beltran is 24-4,16 KOs.

[u.g boy]

Ekiring Out!

Ekiring in action.

By Michael Mubiru.
Uganda badminton top seed Edwin Ekiring was yesterday evening eliminated from the Portuguese international badminton tournament raging on in Portugal.
After defeating France’s Sylvain Ternon in straight sets, Ekiring’s next opponent in the round of 16 was world number 3 Lukas Schmidt whom he lost 21-16, 21-15.
Ekiring told Pepper Online Sport that though he lost the match, it was a great experience to play the world number 3.

“All hope is not lost and I am now looking forward to my next tournaments in Morocco. It was a great experience especially with the fact that I am preparing for the Olympic qualifiers” said Ekiring.
The three day tournament attracted the best players in the World where the champion will be crowned tomorrow in Lisbon.

[u.g boy]

THE newly built luxurious Palm Valley Golf Course and Country Club at Kakungulu Akright housing estate


The Palm Valley Golf course. Below is the club house

By JAMES BAKAMA

THE newly built luxurious Palm Valley Golf Course and Country Club at Kakungulu Akright housing estate will in two weeks time host its first major tournament —the Orient bank golf open that is expected to draw East Africa’s finest professionals.

The $6m (sh14b), nine-hole course built on a hilly and swampy area overlooking the Akright estate has been under construction for the past two and half years.

It’s a scenic par 36 course that has been built and shaped by professionals with a primary target of improving it to the standards of hosting recognised stars and multi-million dollar events.

‘‘We look forward to hosting a golf tour that will bring in people like Tiger Woods. On October 9th about 50 golfers from Holland have already booked to play here,’’ proprietor Amos Nzeyi told Sunday Vision.

World class greens
It has fantastic greens that have a thick cushion that local golfers say are the best in the country and similar to those in Nairobi, South Africa and Zimbabwe.

‘‘It is a beautiful and challenging course because all greens are protected by bunkers which are big and deep. But it is still so soft on the fairways especially during this rainy season.

“It requires time to get together. After more grass has been planted and ground elevated it will even be better,’’ lady golfer Jasper Kamukama, who had just finished nine holes said.

There are water hazards to look out for especially towards the 468 yards par 4 hole No.1 and 251 yards par 3 hole No.2. There is also a stream that runs across the course.

Despite being in a swamp, the greens that have a thick and soft cushion easily drain water on rainy days and are presumably faster in the dry season.

The course is littered with palm trees from which it derived part of its name. It will be an 18-hole course on completion and will also house a hotel and club house.

According to Nzeyi, the whole project is a $12m (sh29b) investment funded by Orient Bank. It has been tested by several locals who have found it challenging.

He said the seeds of the grass on the greens was imported from Frolida in the US.



Ouma wants to be champ again

Ouma ready to fight

By Douglas Mazune
and James Bakama

HARDLY a week after Ugandan Kassim ‘The Dream’ Ouma’s world title shot against Gennady Golovkin was announced, the mind games are already on.

Ouma’s co-manager Ruben Castanon admitted that the Ugandan enters the June 18 fight in Panama as the underdog but warned the WBA middleweight champion Golovkin (20-0, 17 KOs) whose title is on the line, to take the challenger for granted at his own peril.

“This will definitely be a tough fight for Ouma but it will be equally as tough for Golovkin,” Castanon was quoted on fightnews.com.

Ouma (27-7-1, 17 KOs) was written off by many, having lost five of six fights in early 2010.

An immediate change was needed to salvage his career so Ouma headed west from Florida to Riverside, California where he hooked up with his new managers
Charlie Perez and Castanon.

Ouma beat American Verno Phillips to take the IBF light middleweight crown in 2004. He later lost the title.




Mangat set to return in NRC
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Mangat’s rivalry with Ssebuguzi and Lwakataka should make a good NRC title race. PHOTO: JB SSENKUBUGE

By James Ssekandi
Posted Sunday, May 1 2011 at 00:00
IN SUMMARY

NRC Standings
S. Muwonge160
R. Ssebuguzi 100
W. Bukenya 75
N. Mutebi 75
E. Mungyereza 60

Rally ace Jas Mangat will make a return to the National Rally Championship (NRC) during the Southern Motor Club Challenge Rally due May 6-8 in Rakai district.Mangat, who quit local rallying last year after questioning Ponsiano Lwakataka’s win in Jinja, returns to lead a star cast that includes Ronald Ssebuguzi, reigning NRC champion Nasser Mutebi and championship leader Susan Muwonge among others.

“Jas is part of the 27 crews that have confirmed participation so far,” Clerk of Course David Nsobya told a gathering during the event’s launch at Misaali Hill on Friday.

Stiff competition
With two-time NRC winner Ssebuguzi making a triumphant return during the Umospoc challenge in March, Mangat’s entry makes the third round of NRC event stiffer as the race for this year’s championship takes shape.

Yet to score a single point this season, Lwakataka, also a two-time NRC winner, believes winning the Southern Motor Club Challenge Rally will enable him prove he beat Mangat fair and square, and thus get back into title contention.

“It’s good Mangat will be here then we shall put that dispute to rest,” Lwakataka promised. The rally, covering 183km, flagged off yesterday with a Super Special stage at Misaali double circuit. The route will go through seven competitive sections in the villages of Rakia district today.

Muwonge leads the standings with 160 points.