Athletes aspiring to qualify for the upcoming 2024 All Africa Games in Ghana will have one final opportunity to earn their tickets to the continental event at the Athletics Namibia (AN) third Grand Prix series.

The third edition of the AN’s Grand Prix series is scheduled to take place in Rietfontein this weekend, marking the last chance for athletes eyeing participation in the prestigious All Africa Games next month. Bethold Karumendu, the secretary general of Athletics Namibia (AN), emphasised the significance of this weekend’s event as the closing opportunity for athletes to secure their spots at the games.

The 13th African Games are set to be held in Ghana from 8 to 23 March 2024 across three cities: Accra, Kumasi and Cape Coast. The event will feature over 24 sports disciplines, with Uganda expected to send a sizeable contingent.

“I anticipate fierce competition this weekend, as it represents the final chance for athletes to earn their spots at the upcoming games. With the deadline set for the 20th of this month, our athletes have only this competition to showcase their abilities and secure berths for the event next year,” Karumendu remarked.

He mentioned that they anticipate
a turnout like last weekend’s Grand Prix in Windhoek.

“We experienced one of the highest attendance levels in recent memory, with approximately 36 clubs from various regions participating in our event last week. It was one of the best-attended events in quite some time, and we anticipate a similar turnout for the upcoming event,” he stated.

Namibia Correctional Services (NCS) dominated the proceedings the past weekend, followed by the University of Namibia Athletic Club (UNAC) in second place and Namib Lions in third. 

- mkambukwe@nepc.com.na