Nujoma Marathon downgraded

By: SHEEFENI NIKODEMUS

THE second edition of the Sam Nujoma Marathon has been reduced to a half-marathon, the organisers announced yesterday.

The half-marathon will take place in Windhoek on July 29.
According to chairperson of the Namibia Sports Commission, Vivienne Katjiuongua, unforeseen but “cumbersome teething troubles and challenges” necessitated the downgrade from the traditional 42km distance to 21km.
The Sam Nujoma Marathon was initially expected to be held close to May 12 - its patron’s birthday.
The winners in the male and female categories will pocket N$20 000.
“Among other things, we took cognisance of sister marathons being organised by our affiliates and co-sponsors which will be taking place in the near future,” she said.
“Notably we considered health-related issues, such as the fatigue and fitness of our athletes in order to allow them enough inhalation space to rest and be able to be competitive enough in other upcoming events, consequently we had to down grade the main event categories at least for this year to a half-marathon.”
Katjiuongua added that athletes could be subjected to random doping tests as this is a sanctioned  national event.   
“We wish to emphasise and warn our athletes to be health conscious and avoid the use of prohibited substances as rapid doping tests may be conducted,” she said.
Other races on the day will include a school marathon relay, a 5km fun run and walk as well as a 10km race.
Registrations for all entries in different categories are now open and registration forms are available at the offices of Namibia Sports Commission, Athletics Namibia, Khomas Athletics and OTB Sports & Trophy outlets countrywide.
Registration fees for the 5km fun run are N$10, N$20 for the 10km and N$30 for the 21km.
MTC has sponsored the event with N$170 000 while Coca-Cola has added a further N$15 000 cash plus refreshments worth N$40 000.

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