The 2026 motocross season revved into action in Garuga with thrilling races across multiple classes, as Uganda’s young riders delivered a spectacular opening round that left fans buzzing with excitement.
The junior categories stole the spotlight, producing intense, jaw-dropping competition that underlined the country’s growing strength in motocross. With Uganda currently ranked third on the African continent, the performances in Garuga offered strong hope for the future—provided adequate funding can be secured to field a full national team at the Namibia 2026 championship.
In the 50cc Junior (JNR) class, Riyadh Katerega dominated the field with a perfect 60 points, followed by Saad Nsambu on 49 points and Roy Faith Kaye with 32.
The 50cc Senior (SNR) category saw Isreal Mpuga also post a flawless 60-point score, ahead of Ariella Katende (49) and Avisha Laboke (45).
Katende doubled her impact in the 50cc Ladies class, topping the standings with 60 points. Muganzi Ronieta finished second on 51 points, while Kasana Pretty secured third place with 30.
In the WMX Open class, Shamillah Katete claimed victory with 53 points, edging Asia Kasirye (49) and Swansi Sambo (46) in a closely contested race.
Young talent continued to impress in the 65cc category, where Musede Jude Kyle took first place with 60 points. Emil Ssegurinya finished second on 49, while Mukumba Jerome rounded out the podium with 45.
The 85cc class was led by Jonathan Katende with 60 points, while Ethan Paul Musede and Isaac Mutima tied closely on 49 points each.
The 125cc class delivered some of the most electrifying action of the day. Miguel Katende emerged victorious with 57 points, narrowly beating Jerome Mubiru on 54. Ron Young finished third with 39 points after a spirited performance that kept spectators on edge.
George Ssemakula, the event clerk and a motocross parent, emphasized the importance of investing in young riders. He noted that the absence of top MX1 and MX2 competitors created a noticeable gap, making the development of junior riders more critical than ever.
“The little riders are the future,” Ssemakula said, echoing the sentiment shared by many at the track.
