By Irene Best Nyapendi & Yasiri J. Kasango
In a display of unmatched stamina and determination, Seth Akampa of Bishop Stuart University secured a gold medal in the 10,000 meters at the ongoing national inter-university games hosted at Uganda Christian University (UCU). The scorching sun bore witness to Akampa’s exceptional performance as he conquered the UCU track in a remarkable 33 minutes, 53 seconds, and 8 microseconds, leaving his closest competitor trailing by a staggering 2 minutes.
In the lane beside him was Frank Okello (UCU), his dark skin slick with sweat. His face was etched with the strain of the race, but he remained impassive. His blue pants and white vest seemed to blur as he dug deep with each stride.
Akampa surged ahead on the final lap, and in 33 minutes, 53 seconds, and 8 microseconds, he’d conquered and emerged as the winner of the race. Okello, though left in his wake, didn’t falter. He pushed on, his eyes fixed on the finish line, and the cheers of his own UCU fans fueled his resolve. He crossed the line in second, sweat dripping but with a quiet satisfaction on his face in the 33rd minute and 12 seconds.
Akampa, arms raised in victory, basked in the adulation of the crowd. But even in the throes of triumph, he acknowledged his rival. A hug of respect was exchanged between two warriors who had pushed each other to their limits.
When it comes to athletics for the UCU team, today’s spotlight shines on Sharif Olipa, a UCU BBA student and the captain of the UCU athletics team.
As Olipa sprinted to victory for 100 meters, his confidence reverberated.
“The person I knew as strong, whom I had seen in the semi-finals, got an injury in this final, so that gave me the opportunity,” Olipa said.
The strategic mind of a champion unfolded as he looked behind, nearing the finish line, ensuring that no competitor threatened his lead and conserving his energy for the 4 by 100 relay.
However, the sweet taste of victory was juxtaposed with the bitter pill of defeat in the 4 by 100 relay. UCU, in lane 8, faced tough competition from Ndejje University in lane 7, ultimately securing the second position. Captain Olipa attributed the loss to a less-than-ideal start.
“Our start wasn’t the best, so covering the gap was hard, but we tried our best. If we had covered the gap at the back straight, we would have been the best,” Olipa said.
Tomorrow at 2:00 p.m., UCU will take part in the 200-meter heat relay.
The best set will then be taken to the finals.
Sharif Olipa, alongside Glenn Otieno and the UCU team, stood tall as gold medal winners in both men and ladies categories. Atimango Winfred, Atiang Charity Mercy, and Olipa Sharif Glenn Otieno emerged as an outstanding performer, taking home medals.
