Uganda’s junior women target glory at World Cross Country Championships

Junior women team: Nancy Chepkwurui, Charity Cherop, Bentalin Yeko, Peace Chebet and Felister Chekwemoi.

As the World Athletics Cross Country Championships take center stage this Saturday in Tallahassee, Florida (USA), Uganda will field a strong contingent of 26 athletes across various categories.

Among them, the junior women’s team stands out as one to watch not merely for their youth, but for the exceptional promise and medal-winning potential they carry.

Uganda has selected five junior female athletes for the global showpiece: Nancy Chepkwurui, Charity Cherop, Bentalin Yeko, Peace Chebet and Felister Chekwemoi.

Together, they form a balanced squad blending international exposure, national dominance and rising talent, capable of challenging for honors both individually and in the team event.

Leading the charge is Charity Cherop, who will be making her second appearance at the World Cross Country Championships as a junior. The 18-year-old distance runner debuted at the championships in 2024 in Belgrade, Serbia, where she delivered an outstanding performance finishing eleventh to help her team secure a team bronze medal.

Cherop arrives in Tallahassee with growing confidence and an impressive résumé that includes bronze in the 5,000m at the World Athletics U20 Championships, gold at the U20 African Championships, and silver from the Islamic Solidarity Games.

Another athlete expected to shine is Nancy Chepkwurui, who will be making her World Cross Country debut. Though new to the global stage, Chepkwurui has been remarkably consistent on the domestic and continental circuits.

She is the reigning African U20 champion in the 1,500m and recently finished third at the 2025 National Cross Country Championships, underlining her strength and endurance over varied terrain.

Bentalin Yeko adds further depth and leadership to the team. The national cross country champion, Yeko has proven her versatility by also claiming the African U20 title in the 3,000m. Her ability to handle tactical races and tough courses makes her a key asset in Uganda’s team ambitions.

Completing the squad are Felister Chekwemoi and Peace Chebet, both of whom impressed at the National Cross Country Championships, finishing second and fourth respectively. Their performances earned them deserved places on the team, and they are expected to play a crucial role in securing a strong collective finish.

With a blend of experience, proven medal winners and fearless newcomers, Uganda’s junior women arrive in Tallahassee not just to participate, but to compete. If form and teamwork align, the team has every reason to believe that gold whether individual or team is within reach.