Zebalt Ngaruka 

GOBABIS – About 80 athletes from around Epukiro took part in a centenary marathon event at Omaueuozonjanda this past weekend. 

Athletes vied in the five kilometres (km), 10km and 21km races in both male and female categories. 

Lawrence Uatieua Tjonga easily won the 21km race unopposed as other athletes failed to reach the finish line. 

The same happened in the female category, where Maria Paulus won the first position without being challenged. 

In the 10km of the male athletes, Tjavanga Kamburona won. 

He left behind highly-rated Jakuaterua Korupanda in second place, whereas Ngaihape Mbuende settled for the third position. 

The female category accolade went to the impressive Jeffrou Kavezepa, who showed a high level of fitness by outshining Desiree Marenga and Veueza Siririka, who respectively took second and third places. 

Veteran marathon runner Leo Kandetu came first in the 5km race, followed by Ebson Ngini Hangero in second place. 

Kavandu Siririka claimed the third spot. 

In the female category, Tjavaa Hoveka won the 5km race, challenged by Kamberipo Mbuende and Mbunoo Kaurivi in second and third places, respectively. 

The winners in various categories walked away with trophies and medals. 

Event organiser Japandera Procolo Kamburona said “This was not all about winning, but paying homage to the migration heroes who walked the long journey to Epukiro in 1924. I applaud the athletes for the cooperation they showed throughout”. 

He said the event started on time, the atmosphere was exceptional, and a spirit of togetherness among participants was observed. 

He added that no injuries were recorded throughout the competition, and the weather permitted everything to go smoothly. 

– zngaruka@yahoo.com