Stage set for Lucara half marathon

Calistus Kolantsho | Friday September 23, 2016 15:24

The race is organised by Time Shield Event company. Managing director of Time Shield, Gaone Dickson told Mmegi Sport that the sponsorship will go a long way in making sure that they stage a successful event. The marathon is divided into three categories: 21km (registration fee is P100), 10km (registration fee is P75) and 5km fun run (registration fee is P50). The winners of the 21km will walk away with P25,000 for both women and men.

Dickson said cash prize are set for runners in position one, two and three for the 21km and 10km. He said runners from other countries have shown interest in taking part in the half marathon.

Dickson said at the moment, six running clubs from South Africa have confirmed their attendance. He said individual runners from Namibia and Zimbabwe have booked their spaces in the marathon. 

Dickson said they decided to tap into an emerging fitness culture in the country. Dickson said they expect the half-marathon will go a long way in uniting the nation. He said there was no way they could not have the event and leaving out the Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC) who are the custodians of sport in the country and they (BNSC) have endorsed the event.

He said the organisers are also working and partnered with the Botswana Athletics Association (BAA). He said they did not want to fall into the trap of having a marathon that is not sanctioned. Dickson said the intention is for the half marathon to be an annual independence race in partnership with BAA.

“The association will make sure that the race adheres to the international standards and in the future can be used as a qualifier for international races,” he said.

Dickson said they have also engaged the Botswana National Olympics Committee (BNOC) to assist with anti-doping tests on the day. He said the winners on the day will have to undergo anti-doping tests.

He said the race is also being supported by ministry of youth, sport and culture together with the office of the Gaborone City Mayor.

He said the city mayor, Kagiso Thutlwe and the minister of youth, sport and culture, Thapelo Olopeng, Lucara Mine managing director and his employees are expected to take part in the half marathon.

The half marathon has netted sponsorship worth P1.9 million from Lucara Diamond.

Meanwhile, Dickson said they have planned a family fun filled day and parents are encouraged to bring their children because there will be a kiddies corner provided by Kings Foundation.

He said there will be entertainment provided by local artists such as Vee, Figos, Nt Base and T.H.A.B.O. There will be South African artists being Trademark and Justmore of YFM.

“People are only allowed to park at main mall and Notwane ground. There is limited parking at GSS ground and we are not going to allow parking on islands along nearby roads,” he cautioned.