Zebaldt Ngaruka
Athletic Club Otjinene delivered a stellar performance at the recently concluded Hardap Champs, held at the Moeisac Sports Ground in Mariental, returning home with an impressive haul of 13 medals.
The Hardap Champs formed part of Athletics Namibia’s Leg Seven Games for 2025, drawing participation from more than 20 athletic clubs across various regions, including Omaheke, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, Khomas, //Karas, and the host region, Hardap. The multi-age competition catered to athletes ranging from the Under-6 age group to senior categories, showcasing emerging talent and seasoned competitors alike.
Otjinene-based Athletic Club took a team of 11 promising athletes to the prestigious event, and they did not disappoint.
One of the youngest stars of the team, Meposevi Kaeupiu, sprinted her way to victory in the Girls U/7 60m race, clinching a gold medal and making a remarkable debut. Sarafina Kakundi continued the medal streak with a silver in the Girls U/15 200m sprint.
In the Girls U/19 category, Javarua Hakuria impressed the crowd by taking gold in the 200m and securing a bronze in the 100m. Teammate Kazaatjo Kambiri, one of the Omaheke region’s standout athletes, dominated the 400m event to win gold and added to her medal tally with a silver in the 100m and a bronze in the 200m.
The club’s senior women’s competitor, Hitjivirue Hoveka, also made headlines by scooping two gold medals in the 100m and long jump, along with a bronze in the 400m.
In the field events, Gift Rusaere showcased his strength and skill, claiming a gold medal in the javelin throw. He also earned a bronze medal in the discus throw, rounding off a strong performance for the club.
Head coach Kaupasaneua Tuaire expressed pride and satisfaction in his team’s overall performance.
“I am very excited about all the athletes’ efforts. The new little girl, Kaeupiu, made us especially proud with her stellar performance in the U/7 category. Her result just shows that my scouting skills as a coach are on point,” Tuaire said.
He added that preparations are ongoing as several of the athletes are expected to represent both the Omaheke region and Namibia in upcoming competitions set for June and July.
“There’s still polishing to be done before we head to the Nampol Championships in Otjiwarongo and the Region Five Games,” he noted.
Tuaire also credited the growth of his athletes to the exposure they gain from competing alongside athletes trained by some of Namibia’s most experienced coaches.
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