Close to 250 athletes from across the country will converge at the Independence stadium in the capital today and tomorrow for the senior national athletics championships.

Athletics Namibia (AN) president Erwin Naimhwaka said they are expecting stiff competition from competitors.

“We have about 10 regions that have confirmed their participation this weekend. All clubs affiliated to our regional structures are expected to be part of this big competition,” he told New Era Sport.

The event also serves as a qualification opportunity for the Commonwealth Games scheduled for Birmingham, England in July this year.

“This competition also helps expose these new athletes and showcase their talent,” he added.

Meanwhile, Unam Athletics Club sprinter Mahmad Bock told Nampa people should expect fireworks tonight when he and others compete in the 400m sprint. The 400m semifinals will take place at 17h30, according to the preliminary programme.

“It will be exciting, and I can’t wait for the competition as all sprinters have prepared well, which will make it an interesting race to watch,” he said.

The rising star will also contest the 100m and 200m sprints.

Field events, including shot put, discus throw, high jump, long jump, are anticipated to commence at 18h00. 

The 100m final for both men and women will start at 21h30, and the 4x100m relay races at 22h30.

Saturday’s programme opens with 10 000m at 9h00, with the last race of the day, the 4x400m relay for men, expected to commence at 13h15. - Nampa