Roessing marathon draws nearer for runners

WINDHOEK – Long-distance runners are gearing up for the 16th edition of the annual Roessing Namibia Marathon Championship that will be held at the coast on February 24.

The event will have runners competing in the 42,2-kilometre marathon as well as the 10-kilometre run and walk, while there will also be a five-kilometre charity walk in honour of the Cancer Association of Namibia. The winner of the race will be crowned the Namibia national marathon champion over both the marathon and 10 km races.Event organiser Alwyn Lubbe yesterday said that he is not sure if the three-time champion of the marathon, Salomo Davids, will defend his title.”I have not heard from him and I am not sure he will run,” said Lubbe.Rachel Akukuthela won the women’s open category last year, but it is not yet known whether she will compete this year.Lubbe said it would be the last race where runners can qualify for the Two Oceans and Comrades marathons in South Africa.”The 10-kilometre run and walk could again be a popular race judging by the previous events and a good field can be expected,” he said.The organisers stressed that the 10-km course is open to everyone.In addition to the cash prizes for category winners, T-shirts will be issued at the start and each finisher will receive a medal.NampaThe winner of the race will be crowned the Namibia national marathon champion over both the marathon and 10 km races.Event organiser Alwyn Lubbe yesterday said that he is not sure if the three-time champion of the marathon, Salomo Davids, will defend his title.”I have not heard from him and I am not sure he will run,” said Lubbe.Rachel Akukuthela won the women’s open category last year, but it is not yet known whether she will compete this year.Lubbe said it would be the last race where runners can qualify for the Two Oceans and Comrades marathons in South Africa.”The 10-kilometre run and walk could again be a popular race judging by the previous events and a good field can be expected,” he said.The organisers stressed that the 10-km course is open to everyone.In addition to the cash prizes for category winners, T-shirts will be issued at the start and each finisher will receive a medal.Nampa