Norman Katende
2 September 2008
Kampala — THERE were no medals for Uganda at the Beijing Olympics but Global Sports believes a foundation for the 2012 Olympic Games has been laid and the nation should be proud of her athletes.
"They might have not won titles but the times posted are encouraging. At times, we have to look at the times and know the future potential of an athlete. Some were unlucky," said the company's Jurrie Van Der Velden, who is in charge of Ugandan athletes.
The athletes' management firm which is in charge of world stars in Ethiopian runners Haile Gebrselassie, Kenenisa Bekele, Sileshi Sihine and Kenyan Eliud Kipchoge, believes Uganda's performance has increased their interest and want to recruit more.
The firm also has Benjamin Kiplagat, Doreen Chesang, Stephen Kiprotich and James Kibet. "We want more Ugandans on European circuits."
Velden promised to visit Uganda next year to sign up more athletes.
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