Swakopmund, Namibia – Athletics Namibia’s athletics season kicked off with a spectacular display of talent at the Pupkewitz Foundation – AN Grand Prix Series Meet1, held at Vineta Stadium in Swakopmund on Saturday, January 27, 2024.
In an event supported by the Pupkewitz Foundation, 270 athletes, representing 27 athletics clubs from various regions of Namibia, participated in a fierce competition. The Grand Prix showcased athletes vying for coveted positions in the top 10 in standard categories and top 5 in para-athletics, with a total of N$120,000.00 in cash prizes up for grabs.
The standout performers of the day were Ndawana Haitembu and Elvis Gaseb, who blazed through the competition in the 100m and 400m categories, respectively. Haitembu recorded an impressive time of 11.94 seconds, while Gaseb dominated the 400m with a lightning-fast time of 47.29 seconds, each earning a well-deserved N$4,000.00 in prize money.
In the para-athletics categories, Roodly Gowaseb and Lahja Iipinge showcased their experience, claiming victory in the 5000m and 400m, respectively. Both para-athletes earned themselves N$4,000.00 in prize money.
The athletes’ performances were assessed using the World Athletics Scoring points and the IPC Scores for the Para-athletics category. Cash prizes were awarded to the top-ranking athletes in each category, ranging from N$500.00 to N$4,000.00.
A total of 215 athletes, representing 27 athletics clubs such as Athletics Development Club, Dream Team AC, and Ongwendiva Run Along AC showcased the depth of talent in Namibian athletics.
Athletics Namibia expressed immense gratitude to the Pupkewitz Foundation for their invaluable partnership, without which the Grand Prix Series would not have been possible. The next installment of the Grand Prix is scheduled for February 10, 2024, at the Independence Stadium in Windhoek, Khomas Region.
