Nebbi — With the 14th coronation anniversary of Ubimu Phillips Olarker Rauni III fast approaching, the 3rd edition of regional bicycle races in the Ker Alur Kingdom has successfully concluded.
The event, aimed at uniting the youth across the region, saw participants from all three counties rewarded for their remarkable performances, while anticipation grows for the grand finale.
MTN Uganda, in partnership with Ker Alur, organized both the 7th edition of the Kopu P’Ubimu football tournament and the bicycle races.
These activities form part of the build-up to the coronation anniversary, scheduled for October 26th, 2024, at Bar Omach.
Final Competitions Await
The bicycle race finalists from each county will compete at Pajobi in Pakwach Town Council for the grand prize.
The Kopu P’Ubimu football tournament final will take place at Pacego Playground, Panyango Sub-County, on October 19th, featuring a clash between Padyere and Jonam Counties.
Ker Alur's Executive Director, Vincent Ochaya, underscored the importance of discipline during the finals.
"As Ker Alur, we will not tolerate any acts of indiscipline that could tarnish the image of Alur culture. These activities are meant to foster social cohesion and promote our rich cultural heritage," he said.
The 10-kilometer regional bicycle races were fiercely contested, with participants battling for cash prizes.
In the female race from Padyere, Charity Andhu claimed the top prize of Shs500,000, while Jenifer Akumu and Teopita Anego followed as the 1st and 2nd runners-up, earning Shs200,000 and Shs100,000, respectively.
In the male category, Victor Ofoirwoth triumphed, winning Shs500,000, with Bright Onegiu and Stephen Jatic-Ongeyo taking second and third places, earning Shs200,000 and Shs100,000, respectively.
Higher Stakes in the Final
MTN Uganda's Territory Sales Manager, Godwin Taban, commended the cultural significance of these sporting activities and reiterated the company’s support for cultural institutions across Uganda.
“As we approach the climax of these events in Ker Alur, the finalists from all three counties will vie for even bigger prizes,” Taban noted.
The stakes will be higher in the upcoming final, with the winner of the bicycle race set to receive Shs1.5 million, the 1st runner-up Shs700,000, and the 2nd runner-up Shs500,000.
“We are committed to building strong social and business networks with cultural institutions through events like these, which not only promote culture but also create lasting relationships,” Taban added.
As the coronation anniversary of Ubimu Phillips Olarker Rauni III draws near, both the Kopu P'Ubimu football tournament and the regional bicycle races will culminate in thrilling finales, celebrating sport, culture, and unity across the Alur Kingdom.
