Citi Dash leads the way
Run or walk - the choice is yours!
The Nedbank Citi Dash takes place in the capital on 10 September, with plans to use the 5 and 10-kilometre events for runners and walkers in particular as a catalyst to promote a more active and healthy lifestyle and competitive road races at the same time.Frank Bombosch, one of the main organizers since the inception of the Citi Dash, says the mindset that more Namibians are capable of changing important issues than being mere spectators or inactive complainers lies at the heart of the slogan "We Run This City".
"In 2018, I came up with the idea of setting up an annual sports event in the heart of Windhoek's central business district. We wanted to make people more health and fitness conscious. Many cities around the world do this and it has developed into international competitions. The idea is also to revive the CBD. We have the perfect venue with Independence Avenue which is almost flat and 100 per cent suitable for the race," he said.
The first competition on 23 June 2018 was a huge success and started at the Zoo Park. In 2019, 2 500 athletes participated, but in 2020 it could not be hosted and was postponed to 2021. Unfortunately, the event did not take place in 2022 either.
"But now the Citi Dash is back and this time it's going to be bigger and better than the first two events. With the support of Cycletec, OTB Sport, Checkers, Ineos International, iStore, Namibia Health Plan and Paratus, we will offer the people an experience to remember!"
Breeding competition
For the 10 km event, there are elite classes for senior and u/18 athletes. "The goal is to breed more competitive middle-distance athletes. Namibia has many marathon runners who are doing well, but we currently have too few athletes who can maintain a pace of three minutes or less per km over 10 km," Bombosch said.
"To be internationally competitive, an athlete must be able to cover 10 km in 30 minutes, and that is the goal for every elite participant. Cash can be won (top five) to encourage the u/18 as well as senior female and male athletes. Come show us your speed and talent!"
He added that the Citi Dash over 10 km is the perfect opportunity for hockey, rugby and soccer players to test their fitness. Remember, in these sports, players run anything from 8 km and more.
Each group will get their time to make comparisons. This data can be used every year to measure your fitness levels.
"The goal is to develop people. This year they may only walk the 5 km, but next year they may be ready to run the 5 km and the year after that they tackle the 10 km."
Bombosch said that in preparation for the Citi Dash, they host a seminar to train beginners or inexperienced participants at the end of August.
The senior elite men's time limit is 55 minutes and for the women one hour to cover the 10 km.
"A total of N$101 000 in prize money will be paid out in the respective events, as well as prizes in lucky draws. Schools and clubs can pick up prizes for the most participants in the top three positions. The elite visually impaired and wheelchair athletes have not been left out and there are cash prizes for the first three places.
"There will be a festive atmosphere with stalls. Nedbank will provide a Kapana stand, as well as Roberto's Pizza, while Checkers will serve their champion boerewors. We are going to create a wonderful festive atmosphere; to experience it, the people must be there. Everyone is welcome," says the former Namibian champion cyclist and triathlete.
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