Uganda has for first time ever sent a team of three riders to the World Junior Motocross championships set to be held in Bucharest, Romania.
The world championships are slated for this weekend on 7th-9th July, 2023.
While seeing off the team at Entebbe International Airport, Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU) Deputy Vice President Motocycling, Kisitu Mayanja applauded parents for all sacrifices they give in to have their kids race.
“We are glad to have a team to the World Motocross Championships for the first time ever,” said a beaming Mayanja.
Mayanja added that; “It’s unfortunate, we missed out on the services of Larry Ssekamwa on team due to Visa challenges, but am confident the team going will raise our flag high.”
Considering the criterion of best lap speed times, and rider CV, Uganda also misses out on services of Waleed Omar and Aron Orland in the 125CC, who missed on the travel team to Romania due to logistics and Nationality issues respectively.
“I am grateful that the federation managed to facilitate the team with FIM licences payment, bike hiring, air tickets, team jerseys plus accommodation and hiring an event mechanic,” explained Mayanja.
Chief de mission, George Ssemakula, explained that, the trio will first be tested in qualifying rounds, with only 40 riders to qualify in 65 CC category out of over 65 riders.
Ssemakula added that, the qualifiers for 85 and 125 CC classes just as for 65 will be on Friday and Saturday, final race on Sunday.
Meanwhile, all Ugandan riders have retained their local race numbers plates a significant recognition for their abilities by world body, FIM ( Federation International Motocyclisme).
Jonathan will ride on bike number 19, Miguel will be on bike 199, as Ssebuguzi will ride on bike 16.
*Riders promise:
Jonathan Katende Ssemakula, Uganda’s number two in 65 CC category says that their main target is first to qualify, then see how they feature main race.
Miguel Katende, Africa’s number two in 65 class, prayed they travelled safely to Romania, qualify and will settle their scores at battle line.
Gift Tabula Ssebuguzi, Africa’s number one 85CC, says he is previledged to be part of Ugandan team for world championships, hopes to raise country flag high in Romania.
The team is expected back in the country on 11th July, 2023.
Author: Frank Kaheesi – FMU Media
