Old Mutual Namibia on Monday sent off the overall winners of the 2009 Old Mutual Victory Races to participate in the Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town which takes place on Saturday, April 2.
Johannes Naitembu, who was the overall male winner and Helena Ipinge, the overall female winner, each received athletic equipment, flight tickets and pocket money from Revonia Kahivere, the Corporate Transformation Consultant for Old Mutual Namibia.
“I encourage you to make use of this exciting opportunity to compete at this prestigious road running event. With local and international participation you have a window of opportunity to truly manifest your presence in the road running sphere,” she said.
The total sponsorship amounted to a bit more than N$18 000.
Ipinge participated at the Two Oceans Marathon in 2007 when she came 11th in the 21km event, but she said she expected to do better this year.
“I was not ready in 2007 and the conditions were very windy. Now I am well prepared and I hope to finish amongst the top five,” she said.
Ipinge added that she would use the event as ‘speed work’ in preparation for her maiden full marathon which will take place in North Korea a week later. She said she hoped to qualify for the Commonwealth Games in India in October.
Naitembu said he was well prepared and ready for the Two Oceans Marathon.
“It will be my first time at the Two Oceans, but I am ready and prepared and I will give it my best shot,” he said.
Meanwhile Kahivere confirmed that the popular Old Mutual Victory Races series will once again be held this year.
The first leg will be held in Oshakati on June 19, while the second leg will be held in Swakopmund on July 17. The second leg will also serve as the National Half Marathon Championships.
The third and final leg will be held in Windhoek on August 7.