Run paints the town red
Bank Windhoek woke an army of enthusiastic runners of various age groups to participate in the Bank Windhoek Red Run on Saturday.Previously known as the Bank Windhoek Relay, the Bank Windhoek Red Run upheld an active, high-energy atmosphere for runners. In partnership with Ae-//Gams Sports Club, the timed event started at 06:00 with a cut-off time of 11:00 at Zoo Park in the capital.
Associated with the red colour, Bank Windhoek is dedicated to mobilising and uniting Namibians for a good cause. At the event, Bank Windhoek’s Managing Director, Baronice Hans, said the aim was to create a red army of people who would take Namibia by storm and bring positive change to their communities.
Hans said the turnout was outstanding, with over 1 700 participants of various ages who laced up their running shoes to complete 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km races. Motivated to “paint the town red for next year’s event”, Hans said, “we would like to see at least 3 000 participants join us in making positive change while adopting healthy habits”.
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.
Top performers
Female winner of the 42km race and recognised as first place in the Veteran category, Ottillie Aimwata (44) has been a runner for more than ten years. After completing the race and briefly cooling off, she said her participation in the Bank Windhoek Red Run was not motivated by earning a prize.
“Today, I ran in hopes 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,” she said.
Aimwata says she once dreamed of qualifying for the Olympics, but age has caught up with her. She continues running with the Namibia Defence Force (NDF) Running Club.
The male winner of the 42.2km race, Les Trollope, said the run was tough with uphills, but he managed to keep his pace throughout. “It was a good run, and I could not be happier with my performance today. I am glad that Bank Windhoek has incorporated this event into their calendar,” he said.
Trollope has previously participated in the Bank Windhoek Relay, Comrades Marathon and Boston Marathon. The passionate runner is preparing to conquer the Cape Town Marathon in October 2024.
Eliander Nepembe was the overall male winner for the 21km race. He said the feeling of winning comes from dedicated weekly training, which is great. He runs three days a week and then takes 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 challenge compared to the Bank Windhoek Relay, which was only 5km.”
Bank Windhoek’s Executive Officer for Marketing and Corporate Communication Services, Jacquiline Pack, thanked all participants, Ae-//Gams Sports Club, partners who set up water points and vendors who added to the event’s success with a fun-filled and active environment.
“Bank Windhoek continues to strengthen relationships with locals by sponsoring and supporting other sports codes in the country, showcasing its commitment to developing Namibian sports while making positive changes,” she said.
The winners won their share of the total prize of N$60 000 and every participant received a medal.