Namibia’s top marathon runners, Paulus Daniel and Lavinia Haitope, showcased their dominance on the road once again by winning the elite 10-kilometre races at the 2025 Nedbank Citi Dash, in Windhoek yesterday.

Daniel crossed the finish line in 29 minutes and 19 seconds, comfortably outpacing a competitive men’s field. He was followed home by Matias Simon with a time of 30 minutes and 16 seconds, while Jeremia Shaliaxwe completed the podium places in 30 minutes and 26 seconds.

In the women’s elite category, Haitope produced a strong and consistent run to claim victory in 34 minutes and 40 seconds. Following close was Shiivomwene Shilongo, who finished just four seconds behind in 34:44, while Salmi Nduviteko took third place in 36:14.

Speaking after the race, Daniel expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating the win reflected the effort he had put into training throughout the year.

“I am happy with my performance, it wasn’t easy, but I did it. I just trained hard this year to win. “The race was great and I’m now getting ready for the World championship.”

Haitope echoed a similar sentiment, noting that while the race was competitive, she had stuck to her plan and executed it well. She is now looking forward to the upcoming Navachab half marathon.

The event attracted a large turnout and enthusiastic crowd support along the city course. Runners competed across multiple categories, from youth and veterans to para-athletes, making the event one of the most inclusive and festive road races on the Namibian calendar.

In the male veterans’ category, Paulus Iyambo won in 33:01. He was followed by Matheus Kadhingula in second place with a time of 33:30, while Malakia Namukomba took third in 34:30.

The U/18 boys’ race was won by Matt Reece Izaaks in 33:39. Petrus Nuule came second in 35:43 and Quinton Sipholine claimed third place with a time of 36:51.

In the female veterans’ category, Alina Armas showed her experience with a winning time of 35:00. Ottilie Aimwata followed in second with 38:08, while Anna Amukoto came third in 40:46.

Elizabeth Kalola led the U/18 girls home with a time of 34:40. Maria Kanyanga came second in 38:26 and Monika Kandyebo placed third in 39:09.

The category for impaired athletes saw an impressive performance from Roodly Gowaseb, who crossed the finish line in 42:16. He was followed by Nico Kharuxab in 44:14.