Namibia: Inaugural Sam Nujoma Marathon Launched

29 April 2011

Former Namibian President Sam Nujoma urged the country’s youth to take part in the inaugural Dr Sam Nujoma Windhoek Marathon which will take place on May 14.

He was speaking at the launch and fundraising dinner of the marathon on Wednesday evening. “A social investment such as this one that is aimed at the mental and physical development of our youth is highly commended I, therefore, would like to call upon our youth to join the Sam Nujoma Windhoek Marathon,” Nujoma said.

“In that manner, they will be able to engage in constructive activities, while staying away from the abuse of drugs, alcohol, and other anti-social behaviour that will destroy their future,” he added. Nujoma added that the honour of naming the marathon after him was not only meant for him but was a well-deserved tribute to the collective nation building efforts.

“It is with profound appreciation to the NSC that I have accepted that my name be associated with such an important event on the country’s sports calendar,” Nujoma said.

The organiser of the marathon, Amos Shiyuka, who is a commissioner at the NSC said their aim was to make the marathon one of the biggest in Africa.

“We believe the Dr Sam Nujoma Windhoek Marathon will become the supreme marathon in Namibia and the rest of Africa,” Shiyuka added. “The winners, both male and female, will each receive N$20 000,” he added.

The second and third placed finishers will each receive N$6 000 and N$3 000 respectively.

The marathon is scheduled to start at the Windhoek Independence Stadium at 06h30 and will be run over 5km, 10km and 42km distances. Registration for all entries in different categories started on Tuesday and the forms are available at the offices of the NSC and at Athletics Namibia.

Fees for registration will be N$10 for the 5km fun run, N$20 for the 10km run and N$30 for the 42km.

AllAfrica – All the Time