Namibia’s middle-distance runner David Dam will compete in this weekend’s Mozambique Invitational Meet, organised by the Mozambique Athletics Federation.
An 800-metre specialist, the 24-year-old Dam runs under the Namibian Correctional Services, but currently trains with the Unam Athletics Club.
He aims to use the competition as a stepping stone towards qualifying for this year’s Paris Olympic Games. Dam needs to clock a time of 1 minute and 45 seconds to qualify for Paris.
His manager, Berthold Karumendu, highlighted the challenges faced by Namibian athletes, emphasising the need for more international competitions. He said local events are not sufficiently competitive, and serve mainly as warm-up sessions.
He pointed out that local coaching does not match the standards of international coaches, noting his own limitations in coaching experience, despite having technical expertise.
Karumendu expressed gratitude for the invitation from Mozambique, as Namibian athletes do not get opportunities to compete in high-profile events like the Diamond League because of their low rankings.
He stressed the importance of the Mozambique meet for Dam, as it represents his last chance to qualify for the Olympics. Although Dam’s personal best is 1 minute and 47 seconds, Karumendu was optimistic about his potential to meet the Olympic standard.
“We are not putting pressure on Dam, but recognise the significant commitment and effort required to compete at the Olympics,” Karumendu said. “He needs support, including nutritionist and physiotherapist, to reach his full potential.
Dam comes from a disadvantaged and marginalised San community, and he is determined to excel,” he added.
Beyond the Mozambique meet, Karumendu said other Namibian athletes still have an opportunity to qualify for the Olympics at the Africa Athletics Championships in Cameroon in June.
The deadline for qualifying for the Olympics is 31 June 2024.
Asked how he feels ahead of the weekend’s competition, Dam said his body is feeling well, and he will do his best to make the country proud.
Other athletes set to compete at the Mozambique meet are Mohammed Bock (400m), Elton Hoeseb (400m), Ndawana Haitembu (100m and 200m) and Tuuliki Angala (800m).
–lmupetami@nepc.com.na