Runners paint Windhoek red 

An enthusiastic army of runners and walkers took part in the Bank Windhoek Red Run for a good cause on Saturday.

Previously known as the Bank Windhoek Relay, the rebranded event saw over 1 700 participants collectively completing the 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km races amid an high-energy and festive atmosphere.

Ottillie Aimwata (44), who took first place in the women’s 42km race, has been a runner for more than 10 years.

She said her participation in the Bank Windhoek Red Run was not motivated by earning a prize. The winners won their share of the total prize of N$60 000, and all participants received medals.

“Today, I ran in the hope of empowering and encouraging more women to set goals that prioritise looking after their health and staying fit. I stay motivated to run, because this helps me avoid physical health challenges,” Aimwata said after the event.

She said she once dreamed of qualifying for the Olympics, but age has caught up with her.

Nonetheless, she continues running with the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) Running Club.

Likewise the men’s main race winner Les Trollope (38) enjoyed Saturday’s experience characterised by tough uphills and winding roads.

An avid runner, he has previously participated in the Bank Windhoek Relay, Comrades Marathon, and Boston Marathon. Trollope is preparing to conquer the Cape Town Marathon in October this year.

“It was a good run, and I could not be happier with my performance today. I am glad Bank Windhoek has incorporated this event into their calendar,” Trollope said afterwards.

Eliander Nepembe (32), the men’s winner of the 21km category, said the feeling of winning is great and is a result of dedicated weekly training

He does shorter runs three days a week and then takes on longer distances on Saturdays.

Having previously participated in the Bank Windhoek Relay, Nepembe said: “Completing 21km of the Bank Windhoek Red Run was a new fun challenge compared to the Bank Windhoek Relay, which was only 5km.”

In partnership with Ae-//Gams Sports Club, the timed event started at 06h00 with a cut-off time of 11h00 at Zoo Park in Windhoek.

Before taking off, Ae-//Gams Sports Club facilitated warm-up sessions, keeping runners on their feet while eagerly waiting to start and finish their races.

Others who did not participate in races cheered for their friends and family.

Associated with the colour red, Bank Windhoek is dedicated to mobilising and uniting Namibians for a good cause, says the bank’s managing director, Baronice Hans.

She says the event aimed to create a red army of people who would take Namibia by storm and bring positive change to their communities.

“We would like to see at least 3 000 participants join us in making positive change while adopting healthy habits,” Hans says.

Bank Windhoek spokesperson Jacquiline Pack thanked participants and organisers for a fun-filled and active day.

“Bank Windhoek continues to strengthen relationships with locals by sponsoring and supporting other sport codes in the country, showcasing its commitment to developing Namibian sport while making positive changes,” she says.