Windhoek
This weekend’s Nedbank Citi Run is expected to draw more than 1000 entries and with the introduction of the 5km race to the popular event, organisers say participants should brace themselves for a highly enjoyable and all-inclusive race.
With this weekend’s event marking the second year running for the Nedbank Citi Run, the race has witnessed tremendous growth and thus introduced the Kids Run, which aims to give opportunities to children between the ages 3 to 10 years to experience the joy of running.
Elaine Schlechter: Executive Wealth Management and Bancassurance said: “With the introduction of the Nedbank Citi Run we have an entrusted opportunity to invest in the community. We chose running because of the different and diverse market segments it represents. Running is a sports code that is affordable to all Namibians and through hosting this event we promote a healthy lifestyle and family involvement that Nedbank consistently supports and promotes.”
“In line with promoting a healthy lifestyle, with the Citi Run we attempt to host an event which caters both to the professional race runner and those who enjoy the event for leisurely purposes,” adds Schlechter.
Last year’s runner-up in the 42km race, Martin Ntinda, also expressed his readiness for the race and said: “I’m excited to participate again this year and look forward to racing against other athletes. I have a very strict training programme. I’m on the track every day and on Tuesdays and Thursdays I do a run between Windhoek and Okahandja.”
Nedbank promises to entice the public and participants who will enjoy a day filled with fun at Zoo Park with affiliate sponsors Radio Wave and TRex who will host the Kids Run.
Schlechter adds: “This year we’re also awarding the best dressed team and/or individual – who can win N$1 000. I’m looking forward to competing in the 10km with our executive leadership team alongside participating staff members. Last year we had a total of 62 staff involved on the day, which shows our dedication to ensuring a successful event. For the kiddies there will be face painting, clowns and balloon folding, and for the whole family a delicious food selection.”
The Citi Run promises to remain a lucrative event on the sporting calendar with prizes totalling N$60 000 spread over all the various categories. At least 10% of the entry fees will be donated to charity, while the remainder will be used to cover the operating costs of the event.
The first 1 000 entries will each receive a free T-Shirt and all participants will receive a finisher’s medal which has become a competitive tool.
Sarti Eshitile, who won the 21km race last year encouraged athletes to register for this year’s event. “The Nedbank Citi Run allows me to participate against professional athletes and provides me with the opportunity to consistently train hard for upcoming events. I’ll be ready come 24 July,” she said.
Entry forms are available online at www.staytotday.com.na and at the Nedbank Main and Independence branches during banking hours. Final registrations will take place at Mutual Towers in Independence Avenue on July 23.
Pre-registration for the race can be done at the following venues: Maerua Mall in front of Nedbank Branch on July 21 between 12h00 – 14h00; The Grove Mall on July 22 between 12h00 – 14h00; Windhoek Harriers Club House, United Sport