Dalene Kooper
Keetmanshoop- Veteran marathon runner and former long-distance track athlete Richard April has refused to hang up his running shoes, choosing instead to channel his passion into nurturing the next generation through the Keetmanshoop Athletics Club.
April recently visited the New Era office to highlight the challenges facing the small but determined club, which he founded to keep his love for athletics alive while creating opportunities for aspiring runners in the //Kharas Region.
His journey in athletics began at the age of 14, when he competed in marathons and relay races during his school years. His talent soon earned him the opportunity to represent Namibia at national, regional and international competitions.
Today, he proudly recalls a career marked by dedication and achievement, with his living room filled with medals and certificates collected over the years.
“Back in the day, there was a big competition called ‘Lucky Star’. Learners were selected straight from classrooms to participate. It was a major event at the time,” April reminisced.
While many of his peers pursued tertiary education and professional careers, April remained committed to the sport. He said athletics was more than just a pastime it became a lifelong calling.
“Most of my fellow runners moved on to other careers, but I stayed with running. I continue to enter local marathons whenever I can,” he said.
Driven by this passion, April established the Keetmanshoop Athletics Club, which currently has just ten members. The club primarily consists of unemployed youth and school-going children, many of whom face financial constraints that limit their ability to participate consistently.
To keep the club running, April relies largely on prize money and incentives he earns from competing in marathons. However, sustaining the club under such conditions has proven difficult.
“I train with the athletes regularly, and they have great potential. But it is not easy to ask for membership fees from schoolchildren or unemployed youth,” he explained.
The lack of funding has led to a steady decline in membership, as some participants are forced to drop out due to financial hardships. In some cases, parents withdraw their children, citing limited opportunities within the sport.
April has approached various offices, including the regional leadership, in search of support. However, his efforts have so far yielded little success.
“I have spoken to the governor’s office, but they indicated that the club is not a priority now. Some offices promised to look into it, but I am still waiting for feedback,” he said. Despite these setbacks, April remains steadfast in his belief that athletics can play a crucial role in shaping young lives.
“Keeping young people active helps steer them away from negative influences. I believe in encouraging and training them until they improve and reach their full potential,” he added.
Looking ahead, April hopes to grow the club into a recognised sporting body within the region. He is particularly eager to register his athletes for upcoming marathons in Lüderitz and Swakopmund but says financial constraints remain a major obstacle.
“Participating in these events requires proper gear, transport, accommodation and food. It is a challenge without sponsorship,” he said. Nevertheless, April is confident in his athletes’ abilities and determination.
“They are always ready to compete and give their best,” he said.
His long-term vision is to build a vibrant athletics culture in the //Kharas Region one that not only produces competitive runners but also inspires families and communities to support young talent and invest in sporting dreams.