Half Marathon organisers look to avoid mistakes
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday September 22, 2017 15:08
The marathon comes just seven days after the Gaborone Mayor’s marathon saw athletes get lost along what was described as a poorly marked route. Registration was also done at the 11th hour.
Now the organisers of the half marathon want to avoid a repeat.
Independence half marathon organiser, Goane Dixon told Mmegi Sport that the 42.2km race has been cancelled due to technical challenges.
He said their race was sanctioned by the Botswana Athletics Association as a half marathon.
“The 42.2km runners will be refunded or downgraded to 21km. All preparations for the race are on track,” he said.
Dixon said for the first time, they will be using Championship Africa UltimateLITE timing service.
He explained that the timing system is an application (App) based timing solution linked to their online entry solution.
“All entrants’ basic details are recorded onto our OnReg entry system prior to the race. Race numbers will be captured by our dedicated officials on the APP as you cross the finish line and this will record the results into the system. Official results will be available immediately after the race,” he said.
Dixon said the half marathon is aimed at celebrating the country’s national heritage and pride.
The race comprises 21km, 10km and five kilometre fun run.
“We want to attract the public to run, thereby growing the base of active athletes in the country and at the same time promoting a culture of fitness and wellness.
We want to promote Botswana as a destination for international sporting activities,” he said.
Dixon said they want to develop elite athletes in the country and provide them with the necessary infrastructure, backing and expertise for them to be able to be competitive on the global stage.
The prize money for both men and women categories for 21km race is P7,500 (first position), P3,720 (second position) and P2,000 (third position). The 10km winners walk away P5,000 richer with P1,500 going to second position and P1,000 for third place. The half marathon is sponsored by, amongst others, Time Shield, O3, MTN Business, Kwese TV, Cally Clothing, Pie City, Easy Escape Travel, Palm Beach Media, Trans Wholesalers, Monsuer, Arona Oil, Cotton Mouth, Party Delights, Dwine Wines, Clearworx, Botswana Building Society (BBS), Botswana Insurance Holdings Limited (BIHL), Bravo Marketing and Airport Junction Mall.