Phillip Seidler, a two-time Olympian, has spent years conquering the open waters, representing Namibia on the world’s biggest stage. Now, he is making waves on land, using his platform to reshape the country’s sports landscape.
Seidler and his brother Daniel formed Teamflippy Sport and Events to elevate and grow sport in Namibia. Their organisation provides athletes with a platform to compete, bringing communities, corporate partners and aspiring talents together.
From the Seawork Cares Beach Series to large-scale running events and off-road triathlons, Seidler’s vision is clear, he hopes to turn Namibia into a thriving sports hub. The 26-year-old long-distance swimmer said through their organisation, they will host an event each month, with the next one scheduled for the end of this month in the coastal town of Swakopmund.
At the upcoming event, participants can choose to swim distances ranging from 50 metres to two kilometres or run/walk 2km or 5km. The event is open to everyone, regardless of fitness level.
“I believe in the power of sport and what it is capable of doing,” Seidler said. “By creating these events, we’re offering so much to aspiring athletes, community members hoping to have fun, and elite athletes looking to improve.”
He added, “Our goal is to continue growing the sport culture in Namibia. As citizens, we believe it’s our responsibility to help where we can, even by creating temporary jobs. Most importantly, we want to make a positive impact on our community.”
Seidler said through this initiative, they intend to grow all sport categories in Namibia, and shared their intention to include more sport disciplines soon.
“Our mission is to grow all sport categories in Namibia. That’s why, for the first time, we’re introducing running as part of the Seawork Cares Beach Series. This is just the beginning; we’re planning to expand into many more sports in the future, including cycling, beach soccer, volleyball and much more,” he said.
Despite only beginning this year, Seidler said they have received an overwhelming response from the communities of Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, who have shown a keen interest in being part of the initiative.
“The response from the coastal cities of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay has been amazing,” he said. “We’ve already surpassed 60 participants, a huge milestone for us as a new event concept. When we first teamed up with our sponsors, we set a modest goal of 30 to 35 entries, but the community support has blown us away. Every day, we’re seeing the number of participants grow for the Seawork Cares Beach Series.”
Seidler said he hopes this event will bring the people in their community together in the long run. “Seawork Cares is committed to making the Seawork Cares Beach Series an event that brings together people from all walks of life in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. We couldn’t be more excited to see the community come together in such an incredible way,” he said.
-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na