Red Run: Racing to victory
The second edition of the Bank Windhoek Red Run, held last Saturday in Windhoek, attracted over 2 000 participants of all ages.With N$60 000 in prize money up for grabs, runners of all skill levels, including several Comrades Marathon medallists, competed across three distances: 5km, 10km and 21km. Participants represented various age categories, including Open, Junior, Veteran, Master and Grandmaster.
The Brave Warriors, also joined the event, running a few kilometres as part of their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The male 21km category saw intense competition. Jeremia Shaliaxwe took first place with an impressive time of 1:14:14. Tomas Rainhold finished just behind in 1:14:41, while Julian Fryman completed the race in 1:17:46, securing third position. In the female 21km category, Martha Shivolo crossed the line first with a time of 1:22:28. Salmi Nduviteko followed closely in 1:24:54, while Adri van Wyk completed the race in 1:44:12 to finish third.
Shivolo, who has been competing in long-distance running since 2005, remarked that the cold weather presented a challenge but expressed satisfaction with her performance.
In the male 10km race, Wilhelm Hangula claimed victory with an impressive time of 34:03. He was closely followed by Geson Koper, who finished in 34:18, with Stephanus Kaudinge also clocking in at 34:18 to secure third place. Hangula reflected on the challenges of the course, stating, “There is no easy race. The hills and downhill sections were tough, but winning is always a great achievement. Events like these motivate aspiring athletes.”
The female 10km race was equally competitive. Tuuliki Angala crossed the line first in 40:51, with Ivonne Shelikita just two seconds behind in 40:53. Fredrika Katshuna secured third place with a time of 44:01. Angala, who had been recovering from an injury, was thrilled to complete the race and return to her running routine.
In the female veteran 10km race, Anna Amutoko, a member of the Namibia Defence Force Running Club, took first place. “I enjoyed the run despite the cold winds,” she said. “I’m happy with my achievement and look forward to next year’s race.”
Bank Windhoek’s Jacquiline Pack thanked all the participants, sponsors, volunteers and community partners who made the event a success. “As a homegrown bank, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote community, wellness, and local causes.”