Lüderitz added to cycling calendar

The Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) and Nedbank Namibia have joined forces with the Lüderitz Crayfish Festival to launch a new cycling event aimed at encouraging participation in the sport at all levels.

Organised by the Powerhouse Cycling Club, the Namport Nedbank PH Challenge is set to take place at Lüderitz on 2 and 3 May, with a second leg at Walvis Bay from 1 to 2 November.

It is also expected to be a thrilling competitive racing platform through which a healthy and active lifestyle is promoted, the organisers say.

To this end, the challenge will be sanctioned by the Namibian Cycling Federation to attract a wider and more competitive audience.

“We have been giving consideration to incorporating a cycling event in the Lüderitz Crayfish Festival for quite a while, and seeing this vision come to fruition is quite pleasing,” says Clive Gawanab, the Lüderitz Crayfish Festival Trust chairperson.

“We have no doubt that the race will be spectacular, as it offers fresh challenges to cyclists in a singularly unique environment.

The races will include various distances in the mountain bike category, with 56 kilometers plotted for more experienced cyclists, and 50 kilometere and 100 kilometre options in the road race category. The event will also feature a 5 kilometre, 10 kilometre and 21 kilometre running event for non-cycling participants.

“This opportunity will aid the Powerhouse Cycling Club in achieving its objectives which include developing and fostering cycling amongst its members and the community at large, encourage its members to participate in cycling at all levels, and continue the mission of promoting cycling in all parts of Namibia,” says club representative Joao da Costa.

Namport will renew its contribution annually for the next three years, says Cliff Shikuambi, marketing and stakeholder engagement manager at the state-owned enterprise.

“This event is not merely a collaboration between our organisations; it represents a shared vision for fostering community engagement and promoting healthy lifestyles across Namibia. With great enthusiasm, I invite each one of us to participate in this challenge which embodies our collective commitment to enhancing the well-being of our communities while also fostering community connections.”

Similarly, Nedbank Namibia managing director Martha Murorua has expressed enthusiasm about the event.

“The launch of this sporting series means a lot to us, as Nedbank Namibia – not just because of our passion for cycling but because it is happening right here in Lüderitz. Our commitment goes beyond our banking footprint here; it is about investing in the people and the future of Lüderitz, helping it grow and thrive,” Murorua says.

Lüderitz mayor Phillippus Balhao has appealed to the Lüderitz community to make the most of the benefits presented by the event.

“I appeal the community of Lüderitz to assist in making the event a success through volunteering, as opportunities are available in the event logistics space,” Balhao says.