Namibia Correctional Service athlete Paulus Daniel and Namibian Police Force runner Lavinia Haitope are set to face some of Africa’s best distance runners this Saturday when they compete in the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) Half Marathon in Gqeberha, South Africa. 

The pair earned their spots at this prestigious event after being crowned winners of the 10th edition of the Navachab Half Marathon last year. Their participation in this year’s NMB Half Marathon was facilitated by an agent, with Navachab covering their travel, accommodation and meals. 

This opportunity forms part of efforts to help the athletes improve their qualifying times for major upcoming competitions, including the Olympic Games set to take place in under three years. 

Speaking at a press conference yesterday at the Namibia Industrial Development Agency (NIDA) building in Windhoek, Daniel said he was eager to represent Namibia and assured the nation that he will give his all. 

“This is huge for me. I thank Navachab for making this possible. It’s up to me to take this opportunity with both hands and chase my dream. I believe I can now start working toward my Olympic dream if I manage to get the right qualifying time. Overall, I am ready to make my country and sponsors proud,” he said. 

Haitope, one of Namibia’s top female distance runners, shared similar sentiments, calling the chance to compete at the NMB Half Marathon a major step toward achieving her career ambitions. 

“I have trained hard since the beginning of the year, and I am ready for this challenge. I know it won’t be easy, but I embrace it and hope to improve my times at this event,” she said. 

In addition to the elite runners, two social athletes, Victoria Shinime and Lazarus Shangadi, will also travel to South Africa for the race. According to Navachab Half Marathon’s competition coordinator, Bethold Karumendu, their inclusion aims to inspire participation in athletics and promote healthy living in communities. 

Speaking on the sidelines after the press conference, Shinime, who will represent Navachab, expressed her excitement about the trip. 

“I’m grateful for this opportunity. Beyond competing, I want to observe how things are done over there and bring back valuable knowledge to help grow our running culture at home,” she said. 

– mkambukwe@nepc.com.na