Record-breaking Napso performances
Athletics
The Namibia Private Schools Organisation (Napso) hosted one of its regional athletics championships at the Vineta Stadium in Swakopmund on Friday and Saturday, featuring 21 primary and secondary schools across the country. The event, organised by Walvis Bay Private School (WBPS), witnessed a remarkable display of talent and determination, with over 1 000 athletes. More than 20 Napso records were improved, including some that dated back as far as 2009.
Speaking on the competitiveness of this year’s event,WBPS sports coordinator Henry Kemp said: “We’ve been used to always hearing the same names dominate at this competition and this year it hasn’t been the case because the kids who aren’t usually on the podium stepped up and made their marks.”
One standout performer was Magano Naseb from Oranjemund Private School, a newcomer to Napso athletics, but a well-known force in the sport. Naseb dominated the under-19 boys’ 200 and 100 metres, breaking both longstanding records.
Naseb clocked an impressive 21.69 s in the 200, surpassing the previous record set in 2012 by Pierre Cronje from Tsumeb Gymnasium, which stood at 21.76.
In the 100, he rushed to victory in 10.71, crushing Cronje’s 10.96-second record from the same year.
Naseb stated that he has dreams of beating the national under-18 record this year. Additionally, he will be partaking in Athletics Namibia’s senior nationals in hopes of qualifying for the Under-20 World Championship in Peru later this year.
Individual performers were recognised as usual, with Stiaan Lewis (7) from Berg-Op Academy and Carla Wilkens (11) from Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool (WAP) receiving awards for best field athletes in all age groups (7-19).
Hanro Wynjeterp (10) and Lumé van Rensburg (15) from WAP claimed the title for the best track performances, while Van Rensburg also earned the distinction as the best senior female athlete (15-19). Etienne Lombaard (17) from WAP was named the best senior male athlete (15–19).
Ashley Martins (13) from WBPS and Markus Visser (7) from Pro-Ed Academy were crowned the top junior girls’ and boys’ athletes (7-13 years).
WAP’s dominance was highlighted by having over 10 learners named as best performers in their age groups.
Looking ahead, the next Napso meeting is scheduled to be held from 1 to 4 May at Stampriet, hosted by Elnatan. The event promises to be another thrilling great display.