By Lylie Happiness
Oshakati, August 8, 2023 The spirited display of athleticism and camaraderie took center stage today as the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) Annual Race Games kicked off their 8th Edition in Oshakati, Oshana Region. The event witnessed a dawn start, with NDF marathon runners converging on the Embadu-Oshakati main road, vying for victory in the highly anticipated 10-Kilometer race.
In a display of unwavering determination, Corporal Wilhelm Hangula of the Special Forces emerged as the victor, crossing the finish line with a commendable time of 33 minutes and 44 seconds. While his performance was nothing short of impressive, Hangula narrowly missed breaking the existing meeting record of 32 minutes and 41 seconds, which was established by his compatriot Sergeant Ndangi Iiyambo during the 7th Edition held in Swakopmund the previous year.
A close second in the race was Private Jonas Lukas from the 12th Brigade, demonstrating his exceptional stamina and speed with a finishing time of 34 minutes and 3 seconds. Aircraftman Jonas Johannes of the Air Force secured the third position, completing the challenging course in 34 minutes and 56 seconds. Lance Corporal Oscar Komeya from the 21st Brigade secured the fourth position, finishing in 35 minutes and 31 seconds, followed closely by Simon Shipingana with a time of 35 minutes and 58 seconds.
Notably absent was reigning champion Woll Helaria Johannes, which paved the way for Lance Corporal Otilie Aimwata of the Defense Headquarters (DHQ) to seize the opportunity and emerge as the triumphant leader among the female competitors. Aimwata’s remarkable performance saw her lead from the starting point and clinch victory in the women’s category, completing the 10-Kilometer race in 40 minutes and 50 seconds.
NDF Training Establishment’s Ndahambelela Shelikita showcased her exceptional endurance and determination, finishing closely behind Aimwata in the women’s race with a time of 41 minutes and 31 seconds. Lance Corporal Anna Amutoko secured the third position with a time of 41 minutes and 41 seconds. Ms. Loise Leo from the 26th Brigade displayed her commitment to the competition, completing the race in 51 minutes and 39 seconds, while Ms. India Kapuka of the 12th Brigade rounded out the top five female finishers with a time of 54 minutes and 49 seconds.
The NDF Annual Race Games not only serve as a platform for showcasing the athletic prowess of its members but also symbolize unity and the indomitable spirit of teamwork within the Namibian Defense Force. As participants and spectators alike celebrate these incredible feats of athleticism, the games continue to strengthen the bond within the NDF community.
As the 8th Edition draws to a close, competitors and organizers alike can reflect on a day that celebrated excellence, camaraderie, and the unwavering determination that defines the Namibian Defence Force Annual Race Games.
