Nedbank Namibia officially launched the 20th edition of the Nedbank Desert Dash, extending the distance from 397km to 401km. 

This endurance challenge will take place from 6-7 December, starting at Grove Mall, traversing the Khomas Hochland Mountains and the Namib Desert, and finishing at Platz am Meer in Swakopmund.

Over 900 cyclists are set to compete, including 160 in two-person teams, 624 in four-person teams and 190 solo riders. 

This year features 15 cyclists in the e-bike category for four-person teams, with participants riding e-bikes for the second consecutive year. 

A new age category for solo cyclists over 50 has also been introduced, with prize money for the top finishers.

Nedbank Namibia’s managing director Martha Murorua highlighted the event’s growth and its status as one of Africa’s premier cycling events. 

“For the past decade, Nedbank has proudly supported Namibian cycling, helping to elevate its profile and attract international participants,” she noted. 

Athletes like Alex Miller and Vera Looser have represented Namibia globally, with Looser recently winning the Union Cycliste Internationale Cross Country Marathon World Cup series in the USA, inspiring many with her achievements.

In her keynote address at the launch, sport deputy minister Emma Kantema-Gaomas said the dash has significantly contributed to Namibia’s sports tourism industry. 

“The global attention brought by this event attracts hundreds of visitors each year, who not only come compete but also to explore the beauty of our country.”

 -lmupetami@nepc.com.na