Over 400 Xtrail runners conquer Avis mountains
Off-road running
Participants could choose from the 7 km or 16 km trails at the highly popular event.
The breathtaking mountains above the Avis Dam played host to an exhilarating Standard Bank trail running event that drew in over 400 enthusiastic athletes on Saturday. Runners from all walks of life gathered to challenge themselves on the rugged terrain and soak in the stunning natural beauty of Namibia.
The Standard Bank Xtrail, the second in the series, was more than just a race; it was an unforgettable experience. Participants could choose from the 7 km or 16 km trails, catering to both seasoned trail runners and those new to the sport.
As the sun rose over the majestic mountains, runners embarked on their journeys, conquering challenging inclines, navigating rocky paths, and immersing themselves in the pristine Namibian wilderness.
Event organiser OTB Sport said: “We are thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of the ninth annual Standard Bank Xtrail. The event once again brought together outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers from across the country for a day of exhilarating competition and camaraderie.
“The event not only fostered a healthy and active lifestyle, but also contributed to the growth of trail running as a popular sport in Namibia.
“OTB Sport extends its sincere gratitude to Standard Bank for their continued support and dedication to promoting sports and wellness in Namibia. Together, we have created an event that has become a cornerstone of the local sporting calendar.”
Results, 16 km
The 16 km male race was won in record time by 36-year-old Jeremia Shaliaxwe in 1:05:07. In second place was last year’s winner, Nasimane Shigwedha, in 1:07:37. Third overall was Martin Ntinda (1:08:56), who was also the winner of the veteran age category. First male in the masters age category was Salomo David in 1:11:34.
The 16 km overall female winner was Indeleni Pengeomake, in 1:19:57. Second overall and winner of the Veteran age category was seasoned athlete and three-time Olympian Beata Naigambo in 1:24:51, followed by Sascha Brinkmann (1:25:23).
The masters female age category was won by Emilia Nabahu in 1:55:30.
Results, 7 km
In the 7 km event, the male category was won comfortably in a record time of 27:50 by Thomas Miller. Thomas usually competes in the longer distance, but due to injury took part in the shorter distance which he blitzed.
Second and third overall was Malakia Mamukomba (29:22) and Samuel Jason (29:43), who crossed the finish line just before Bernadinus Kambwae.
The veteran male category was won by Bas Rijnen in 45:10. Seasoned athlete Frans Erasmus won the masters male category in a spectacular time of 36:12. The 11-and-under age category was won by Marcel Ahrens in 37:08 and the 15-and-under category by Matt-Reece Izaaks (31:09).
In the 7 km female race, the overall winner Angala Tuuli (33:59) built up a handy lead ahead of Ivonne Shelikita (36:32, second) and Verena Zweier (39:27). The veteran female category was won by Hileni Rijnen in 41:34 and the masters category by Gudrun Marschall (52:08). Mia Winter won the 11-and-under category in 46:57 and Lena Ahrens the 15-and-under category in 51:31.
• The third and final event in the series, the Standard Bank Dunes, will take place in Swakopmund on 28 September. This event takes trail runners into the Swakop River and beyond into the open space of the Namib dunes.