Runners paint Windhoek green at 2024 Nedbank Citi Dash
Road running
Organisers aim for the Citi Dash to become similarly iconic to other international city road races.
Windhoek’s city centre was transformed into a sea of green as over 2 000 runners took to the streets for the fourth edition of the annual Nedbank Citi Dash on Sunday morning. This highly anticipated event, hosted by Nedbank Namibia, has firmly established itself as a highlight on the city’s fitness and lifestyle calendar, bringing together runners of all ages and abilities.
Participants in this year’s Nedbank Citi Dash had the option of competing in a 10 km elite race, a 10 km fun run, or a 5 km fun run, making the event accessible to seasoned athletes and casual runners alike.
The climb up Simon de Witt bridge were among the challenges on the route along the capital city’s main street, with Snyman Circle as the turning point on the southern end.
Whether aiming for personal bests or simply enjoying a scenic jog with like-minded company, everyone was united by a shared commitment to health, wellness and an active lifestyle. As a token of appreciation, all participants received medals and refreshments.
Elite men’s 10 km race:
1 Daniel Paulus (28:53, course record), 2 Jeremia Shetekela (29:35), 3 Rainhold Tomas (30:19); 4 Simon Paulus (30:33); Geson Koper (30:34).
In the elite men's race, Daniel Paulus delivered a standout performance, setting a new course record by completing the 10 km race in 28 minutes 53 seconds.
Reflecting on his victory, Paulus expressed his joy, saying: “It’s my first time taking part in this event, and I am really happy with winning and especially with the time I did it in. My aim was to come win and also achieve a good time, and I did that.”
Elite women’s 10 km race:
1 Martha Shivolo (34:40), 2 Lavinia Haitope (34:56), 3 Beata Jeremia (36:45); 4 Indileni Mweshamekange (37:12); 5 Salmi Nduviteko (39:06); 6 Jivanka Kruger (42:28).
Martha Shivolo emerged as the champion in the elite women’s category, holding off stiff competition from the renowned Lavinia Haitope.
“This was not easy. I won, but it really wasn’t easy. We were all pushing for good times, which made it competitive,” Shivolo said after her victory.
Paulus and Shivolo each walked away with cash prizes of N$7 000, along with trophies and winners' medals.
Elite U18 men, 10 km race:
1 Matt-Reece Izaaks (36:17); 2 Ethan Brinkmann (38:21); 3 Emil Thum; 4 Quinton Sipholine; 5 Benjamin Oldenburg.
Elite U18 women, 10 km race:
1 Nyanyukweni Frans (38:16); 2 Monika Kandjebo (40:08), 3 Maja Brinkmann (43:37).
The success of the 2024 Nedbank Citi Dash was underscored during the remarks of Nedbank Namibia's communication and public relations manager, Selma Kaulinge, as she emphasized the bank's commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
“At Nedbank Namibia, we believe that a healthy community is a thriving community. The Citi Dash is mainly about friends and families doing this run in unison.
“We’re thrilled to see such an incredible turnout this year, which demonstrates our community's dedication to fitness and well-being. This event is not just about running; it’s about bringing people together, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and creating lasting memories.”
The event was co-sponsored by Namibia Health Plan, Cycletec, Altra Running Shoes, Ineos Grenadier and Checkers, further highlighting the support behind the initiative.