AN spectacular 839 Namibian runners will probably be taking part within the annual Two Oceans Extremely and Half-Marathon, going down in Cape City, South Africa this weekend.
The occasion, which attracts athletes from all over the world, will see the ultra-marathon held tomorrow, that includes a difficult 56 kilometres (km), whereas the half marathon will happen on Sunday, over 21 km.
In keeping with IOL, the organisers have reported a exceptional turnout, with individuals from 98 international locations, together with Namibia, set to compete throughout the 5km, 21km, and 56km distances.
The Two Oceans Marathon, broadly considered one of the stunning races on this planet as a consequence of its gorgeous and scenic coastal route, is a spotlight for athletes and spectators alike.
Among the many Namibian runners gearing up for the occasion are Mariana Mbako, Lisa Matomola, Ally Uxamb, and Charmaine Kandombo-Shimhopileni, to call just some. Every of them has their very own distinctive motivation and preparation story, showcasing the fervour of Namibian runners.
Mbako, who has been coaching intensively for the occasion, expressed pleasure over this yr’s race. She mentioned her coaching routine started final yr, and she or he has at all times been in love with long-distance runs.
“I prepare thrice every week, and on Saturdays, I deal with lengthy runs, usually masking distances over 21 km,” she mentioned.
Final yr, Mbako participated in each the Extremely Marathon, finishing the race in 5 hours, and the 21km race, ending in 2 hours and 10 minutes.
This yr, she is returning to the ultra-marathon with a laid-back method, planning to benefit from the scenic coastal views whereas operating. “I’m simply going to have enjoyable alongside the attractive coast of Cape City,” Mbako added, keen to absorb the breathtaking landscapes in the course of the occasion.
Matomola, who additionally participated within the 56km race final yr, will probably be specializing in the 21km race this time round. “I have not been coaching a lot as a consequence of work commitments, however I’m nonetheless excited to tackle the 21km this yr,” Matomola shared.
Uxamb, who’s taking part within the Two Oceans occasion for the second time, since final yr defined that her drive to run comes from the sense of accomplishment she feels after finishing a race. “What one feels when you have got accomplished what you got down to do is a large motivator for me. I apply this mantra in all facets of my life,” she mentioned.
Uxamb’s journey is supported by her private financial savings, in addition to sponsorships she receives from firms.
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Kandombo-Shimhopileni, who will probably be operating the half marathon, shared her private inspiration for participating within the race. Whereas her bodily coaching has intensified just lately, she has been mentally making ready for the occasion for the previous yr.
“Sustaining optimum well being is my largest motivation. I strongly imagine in motion and train as important elements of a wholesome life.”
Kandombo-Shimhopileni was deeply impressed by her late great-grandmother, who remained lively and in glorious well being till she handed away on the age of 101 in January. “Her longevity and bodily well being have been an amazing inspiration to me,” she mirrored. She is personally funding her participation within the race, viewing it as an funding in her well being and well-being.
“Being sick is much dearer than prioritising wellness by means of health and an lively way of life,” she added.
As anticipated, South Africans will kind the biggest group of individuals, however neighbouring Namibia and Zimbabwe can even have a powerful presence, sending 839 and 798 runners, respectively, to the races.
Different nations, together with the UK, Mauritania, Malaysia, Ecuador, Slovakia, Palestine, and New Zealand, are additionally well-represented, making this yr’s occasion a real international gathering of athletes.
