Okakarara
Okanguindi village, holed up in the Otjozondjupa Region approximately 65km east of Okakarara, will once again stage its annual 10km marathon on the 26th of this month. The event, now in its fourth year running, forms part of the festive season’s celebrations by the village community. Participants are encouraged to participate in either the walk or run in the different age categories.
The race is open for would-be participants ranging from the age of 4 to 70 in the following age categories; Under-10; 11-15; 16-45 and 46+ for veterans. All categories consist of men and women’s divisions. The ultimate aim of the marathon is to revive the spirit of exercise and fitness among the residents and visitors, with the long-term aim of producing future long-distance runners for the country.
Organisers have urged inhabitants from nearby villages and interested parties from farther away to come and join in the anticipated fun-filled gathering. The current course record is 37 minutes, 54 seconds in the senior men’s category (16-45 years), with the women’s record standing at 1 hour, 7 minutes and 30 seconds.
A small registration fee of N$5 is payable for the 11-15 year age group, and N$20 for those 16+ years, while children under the age of 10 can enter at no cost. Several prizes will be on offer for the first three finishers in all the different categories.
To supplement the donations pledged by the working class in Okanguindi village, the organisers have appealed to potential sponsors to come on board to assist, monetarily or in kind, to boost the amount on offer. Potential donors and people who need more information about the event can contact Hungiree Wilson Billawer @081 140 5673 or Seven Kamundu @081 301 4303.