Karas, Omaheke battle for Newspaper Cup

THE Karas and Omaheke regions yesterday formally submitted their bids to host next year’s The Namibian Newspaper Cup.

The two regions emerged as the top contenders for Namibia’s most popular youth tournament after Otjozondjupa and Oshana withdrew from the bidding process. The organisers will announce the winning bid today.Both regions have hosted the event before. Karas, the diamond capital of the country, hosted the 2007 tournament at Keetmanshoop. Cattle country Omaheke attracted the third edition, held at Gobabis in 2003.Around N$2 million goes into the economy of the host town through bookings for accommodation, food sales by shops and street vendors and other activities centred around the competition, and both bid delegations highlighted the importance of these spin-offs during their presentation.’We as The Namibian are proud to be playing an active role in enabling our regions to be seen,’ said The Namibian’s Business Manager, Ulla Von Holtz.Having heard what the potential hosts have to offer, the organisers scrutinised their ability to guarantee the safety of the players, officials and other visitors, as well as the available accommodation facilities, including entertainment for revellers during the tournament.Khomas hosted and won the tenth edition of the youth development tournament over the Easter weekend this year. Other previous hosts were Walvis Bay, Oshakati, Otjiwarongo and Mariental.sheefeni@namibian.com.na