Namibian long-distance runner Daniel Paulus delivered a stellar performance over the weekend.
He won the inaugural African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Half Marathon in Tshwane, South Africa.
Paulus triumphed in the men’s 21kilometre (km) category, clocking 1:04:12 to claim top honours.
The event made a comeback after a five-year hiatus caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
South Africa’s Onalenna Khonkhobe finished second in 1:04:25, while Kenya’s Eric Ngeno took third, also crossing the line in 1:04:25.
In the women’s division, Namibia’s Lavinia Haitope earned a bronze medal, finishing third in 1:15:31.
Seasoned South African runner Irvette Van Zyl claimed the top spot in 1:14:55, followed by Mildred Chepkemei Kinyanja in 1:15:26.
Adding to Namibia’s success, T54 para-athlete Roodly Gowaseb won his category in the 1-mile race, further highlighting the nation’s depth in athletics.
Namibia fielded a team of eight able-bodied athletes and two para-athletes at the event, which drew competitors from 10 countries in the region – host South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Angola, Lesotho, Eswatini, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia.
The Namibian contingent included Paulus, Haitope, Nyanyukweni Frans, Monika Kandjebo, Angeline Sihova, Marthin Shikambe, Matt-Reece Isaaks, Gowaseb (T54), Merache Garoeb (T47) and Mohamed Uamburu.
Reflecting on his victory, Paulus told Herald Online: “The race was very tough, but the weather was perfect. I am happy I won. I actually surprised myself because it was my first time competing in this Region 5 event”.
Haitope expressed pride in her podium finish, saying: “I told myself that finishing in the top eight would be enough, but coming third is a great achievement.
I want to sincerely thank the Namibian Police Force for their continued support and Athletics Namibia for making this trip possible. I remain committed to flying our flag high”.