Nedbank Citi Dash brings athletes and public together

Windhoek-The Nedbank Citi Dash is a marathon that took place at Ausspannplatz in the city center of Windhoek on Saturday. It was held in celebration of the International Olympic Day for the Namibian public as well as other African athletes. With an expectation of 800 athletes, fun runners, and walkers it is estimated that about 1200 people ultimately took part in this first ever Nedbank marathon with the aim to bring families ,friends and workers together to celebrate the heritage of the city. At the event, Nbc sport caught up with the marketing and communication manager Gernot de Klerk who was overwhelmed by the turn out and the joy of the participants. “It's about elevating the talents that we have but making sure that we have competitive race for one but we do so in a safe circumstances and that we shape our athletes for greater things to come” said De Klerk. Depending on participants' preference there were options for 5km, 10km 21km running or walking, making it a perfect outing for all to take part. Among them was also First lady Monica Geingos who showed her support by taking part in the run. NBC also spoke to Frans Hosea first place winner, who participated in the 10km fun run representing the Namibia Defence force, urging more athletes and young ones to take advantage of these events - especially when they are provided to them for free. “Today I run a 10km fun run it was a very nice race really I enjoy it. It's a nice feeling whereby I see a lot of Namibians in this 10km, it was amazing for me, I enjoy it” Hosea said. In the 21km half marathon category we spoke to Uveni-Nawa Kuugongelwa from the Namibian Correctional Service, a season athlete, who participated in the this year's common wealth games and continuously looks forward to bigger competitions to come. “I want to qualify for Olympic 2020 so I need to compete in 2019 so that I can qualify for the Olympic”said Kuugongelwa. Nedbank thanked all the sponsors and said they were keen to host an event of this magnitude again soon.

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Erickson Tapiso