The highly anticipated second edition of the annual 10km Spar Challenge was officially launched yesterday in the capital, promising an even better event than its inaugural edition.
The event is scheduled to take place on 6 April at Wanderers Stadium and is exclusively reserved for women. It is expected to draw participants from across the country.
Speaking at a press conference held yesterday at the Ministry of Sport, Youth, and National Service (MYNS) headquarters, organiser Bethold Karumendu expressed confidence in the upcoming event’s success.
“This year, we aim to double the number of participants from last year and anticipate stiff competition among attendees. Registration has already commenced, and interested individuals can register at any Spar outlet nationwide. Additionally, we will share registration links with sport officers in various regions to facilitate the process,” Karumendu stated. The marathon, tailored exclusively for women, seeks to empower participants. The elite category winners this year will receive N$10 000 for first place, N$7 500 for second place, and N$5 000 for third place. Speaking at the event, Spar Namibia’s Eugene van Wyngaard expressed excitement about the anticipated turnout and emphasised the event’s growth objectives.
“Last year saw a decent number of participants, but we aim to double that number this year. We envision expanding this event into a larger marathon, possibly extending it to various regions akin to marathons in South Africa. We encourage everyone to participate, and with the population in Windhoek alone, we believe we can achieve the required athlete numbers,” Wyngaard remarked.
Jo-Ann Manuel, the director of sport in the Ministry of Sport, Youth, and National Service, commended Spar Namibia and Pupkewitz for their support. “The ministry is delighted by Spar and Pupkewitz’s involvement, providing opportunities for the nation. With the Olympics and Paralympics on the horizon, this year promises a busy sports calendar. The responsibility for nation building cannot rest solely on the government, and events like the Spar Challenge offer valuable participation avenues. I encourage all women in the country to converge in Windhoek and participate,” she said.
- mkambukwe@nepc.com.na