Kisoma set for historic Obstacle Course Racing debut
TANZANIA: TANZANIA’S Mwahija Kisoma is set to make history as she becomes the first Tanzanian athlete to compete in two major international Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) championships later this year.
The accomplished long-distance runner from Morogoro will represent Tanzania at the prestigious Spartan Beast World Championship for Women in Abu Dhabi, from November 28th to December 1st and at the Dubai World Obstacle Championships (DWOC) in Dubai, from 5 to 8 December 2024.
Kisoma’s participation in these high-profile events marks a significant milestone for Tanzanian sport, as it will be the country’s debut in international OCR competitions. The events are sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de Sports Obstacles (FISO), making them key fixtures in the global OCR calendar.
A rising star in OCR and athletics
Kisoma is no stranger to international competition. A seasoned long-distance runner, she has previously represented Tanzania in marathons and ultra-marathons, including the renowned Comrades Marathon in South Africa and the Tanzania-India Friendship Run (127km).
Her versatility as an athlete extends beyond running, and now, she is poised to make her mark in OCR, a sport in which competitors overcome a series of physical obstacles while racing on foot. Kisoma’s dual commitment to both athletics and OCR underscores her exceptional drive and discipline, making her an inspiring figure for Tanzanian youth.
Kisoma, who also serves as an Assistant Lecturer at Mzumbe University in the field of Records, Archives, and Information Management, is a testament to the importance of balancing academic and athletic pursuits.
Scope Sports Secretary-General of, Abdallah Chapa, commended Kisoma’s dedication and highlighted the significance of her participation in these global events. “This is a historic moment for Kisoma and for Tanzania,” Chapa said. “Her participation marks the country’s debut on the international OCR stage, and we are incredibly proud of her achievements.”
Kisoma will also be supported by a team of up to six Tanzanian Technical Officials (TOs), who will attend the events to gain valuable experience. As part of a wider national initiative, these officials are working towards certification at OCR Technical Level 2, contributing to Tanzania’s growing presence in the sport, both athletically and technically.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for Kisoma and for our nation,” Chapa added. “It’s not just about competition; it’s about learning, gaining experience, and establishing a lasting presence in the global OCR community.”
Kisoma’s participation in the Spartan Beast World Championship and DWOC will surely inspire future generations of Tanzanian athletes and officials to pursue excellence in the emerging sport of OCR.
