Factors limiting Teso sub region from producing elite athletes in track events.

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to establish the factors limiting Teso sub-region from producing elite athletes in track events. This was done using interviews and document review from 23 respondents. The analysis was done using thematic content analysis. The study findings indicated that the trends of performance of track events in Teso sub-region is very poor and the significant factors limiting Teso sub-region from producing elite athletes in track events include inadequate resources such as equipment, facilities and funds, poor coaching, lack of sponsorship, limited exposure to competition, negative attitude of stake holders, lack of motivation, lack of role models, poor nutrition and injury management, poor ethical behavior and poor policies. The study recommends several measures that can be taken to improve the production of elite athletes in track events in Teso sub-region. These include included developing talent identification and nurturing programs, providing more funds to support athletics programs, training more technical personnel, motivation, offering scholarships to athletes, fostering cooperation among stakeholders, availing role models, enhancing nutrition for athletes, setting up well equipped and standardized training facilities for track events and offering medical and psychological support to athletes.The findings of this research have ignificant implications for the development of track events in Teso sub region. The study recommends that stakeholders in the sports industry, such as governments, sports organizations, schools and communities, should work together to address the factors limiting the production of elite athletes in track events in Teso sub region.