DBA Supported long distance runner, Dennis Cheruiyot, widely known as ‘The Running Schoolboy’ continued his steady rise in regional athletics with a strong showing at the 4th National Trials in Uganda. Competing in the highly anticipated 5000m event on Saturday, 12th April at Namboole National Stadium in Kampala, Dennis clocked a time of 14:58, finishing 19th overall and notably, as the first Kenyan across the line.

The race was dominated by the Ugandan Police Athletics Club, whose athletes secured all the top five positions. Job Chemutai took the win, followed by Victor Cherotich, just 18 years old, in second place, and Leonard Chelangat in third. The depth of talent on display was impressive, with the Police Club placing majority of the runners in the top 20, showcasing Uganda’s strong talent in distance running.

The Ugandan National Trials are held annually to scout and select elite talent for international competition, including the World Championships and Olympics. The trials are also a key feature of the country’s athletics calendar, drawing hundreds of spectators and some of East Africa’s finest young runners. For a visiting athlete like Dennis, the event was both a major test and an invaluable learning experience.

Despite the stiff competition, Dennis showed great composure and maturity, racing strategically in a packed field and maintaining a consistent pace to earn a respectable finish. While he didn’t better his personal best of 14:45, his performance in Uganda marks another important milestone in his development.

This race adds to an exciting season for Dennis, who earlier this year travelled to Dubai with long distance runner Fridah Ndinda, where he earned a 3rd place podium finish at the Buji2Buji Half Marathon, his first major international success.

For Dennis, this race is another tick on his journey towards becoming one of East Africa’s premier long-distance runners. As he builds experience, strength, and race craft, the future looks bright for *The Running Schoolboy*.

DBA Africa is proud to support Dennis and celebrates yet another step forward in his inspiring journey.