The man from Soroti, Tarsis Orogot made history at the 2024 SEC Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Gainesville where he represented his team, Alabama.
Orogot sprinted his way to victory in the men’s 200-meter dash, securing the gold medal with a remarkable time of 19.75 seconds.
This outstanding performance not only marked a personal best for the junior athlete but also catapulted him to the top of the NCAA rankings, establishing the third-fastest time in collegiate history.
In addition to his NCAA-leading achievement, Orogot’s feat shattered multiple records, including the Ugandan national record, the East African record, and a meet record.
Orogot’s success on the track is not new. His journey to the pinnacle of athletics includes notable accomplishments such as semifinalist appearances at the 2022 and 2023 World Championships. He is also the first Ugandan athlete to compete at a World Championship in the 200m event.
Orogot’s dominance extends beyond the international stage, as he currently holds both the Ugandan national records for the 100m and 200m, both indoor and outdoor. Additionally, he made history as the first East African to break the 20-second barrier in the 200m race.
