Namibians join Gaborone challenge

More than 80 Namibians have signed up for this year’s Gaborone Striders Runners Club 10×10 Challenge.

The fitness enthusiasts are remotely taking part in the annual event which started on Thursday and requires participants to run 10 kilometres for 10 consecutive days.

The 10km run has to be completed in one go, after which the runner has to upload their run on the designated app.

“From those who registered through Windhoek City Runners Club and Ae Gams Running Club, 80 people are taking part. There may be slightly more as others registered directly with the Botswana club,” says Emmanuel Murwira, one of the Windhoek-based runners.

“We run in different neighbourhood groups which run in routes in Otjomuise, Klein Windhoek, Pionierspark, Cimbebasia and Kleine Kuppe.

The challenge is not only about fitness, but about building the spirit of camaraderie and unity, Murwira says.

He encourages more people to join in on the fun.

“The challenge is a good way to test and improve your running endurance levels. It is also a good way to close of the year and head into the festive season in a fit manner,” Murwira says.

“As the number of Namibian entries has grown, it has been a means for social runners to meet up on a daily basis doing what they enjoy while sharing stories and tips about the sport.

“Other folks can join the group. All you need to do is register through the various running clubs in Namibia or directly with Gaborone Striders Running Club. It is an annual challenge and registration usually starts at the beginning of November each year,” Murwira says.

After six days, the challenge is beginning to take its toll, however, nobody is throwing in the towel, says Reinhard Moyo from the Windhoek City Runners Club.

“So far, so good. All are still pushing through. Fatigue is catching up, but running in groups is helping a lot. Some run early morning before work, others do it after work,” Moyo says.

“One of our members, Nelago Muhapi, is in Tanzania with work, but she still managed to clock her 10km of day six, so location isn’t an issue.”