Organisers say Omaruru Spar Cycle Race a success

OMARURU, 21 APR  – Organisers of the 2018 Omaruru Spar Cycle Race have declared the event a success, saying next year it will be even bigger and better.
Speaking to Nampa after the race, organiser Berthold Karumendu, who is the Erongo Sports Officer under the Ministry of Sport, Youth and National Service, said this year’s race was a great success as over 250 riders participated.
“Some of our top riders are out of the country participating in various international competitions, so as organisers we are happy with the number of participants here today. I am very happy for a small town like Omaruru to witness this race,” he said.
The race was won by Fanie Steenkamp and Michelle Doman in the elite men and women’s sections, respectively.
Karumendu said interest in cycling is continuously growing in Omaruru. They currently have between 22 and 45 children under the age of 15 who are learning how to cycle.
They received 18 BMX bicycles from the Namibia Cycling Federation (NCF), which helps to train the children.
“We are hoping to have the Under-13 and U-14’s participate in the next event using these bikes from NCF. This helps with the development of cycling as a sport as these kids get to know the basics at an early age,” he explained.
Karumendu called on members of local communities, especially those who are disadvantaged, to come forward as training is free of charge.
The NCF has established several centres under its ‘Kids on Bikes’ project at Omaruru, Gobabis, Omuthiya, Okahandja, Outapi and Rundu.
This is a five-year project.

NAMPA