20th Nedbank Namibia Desert Dash prepares to dazzle

Organisers of the world’s longest single-stage mountain biking event, the Nedbank Namibia Desert Dash, have confirmed that preparations for the 20th edition of the competition are complete. The much-anticipated event is set to take place on 6 and 7 December 2024.This year’s race begins at The Grove Mall in Windhoek on Friday, 6 December, with participants cycling an impressive 401 kilometres through the Namib Desert, the world’s oldest desert, before finishing at Platz am Meer Mall in Swakopmund on Saturday, 7 December. First held in 2005 with only 45 participants, the Nedbank Desert Dash has grown exponentially. This year, nearly 1,000 riders will tackle the gruelling 401-kilometre course to commemorate the event’s 20th anniversary. With a total prize fund of N$564,000, winners will be richly rewarded for their efforts.Leander Borg, race organiser from LEMA events, shared updates about this year’s race: “One of the exciting updates for this year is that we have increased the distance by 4 kilometres and added a couple of new categories, which have been well-received by the riders, as shown by the number of entrants. As we celebrate this significant milestone, we extend our deepest gratitude to all our sponsors who make this extraordinary event possible. Special thanks go to Nedbank Namibia, whose decade-long commitment and substantial investment have helped transform this event into the iconic race it is today.”Borg also expressed appreciation for the co-sponsors, acknowledging their crucial role in ensuring that the Nedbank Desert Dash remains a world-class event for cyclists and supporters alike.International Participation and New CategoriesThis year’s event features 19 female solo riders, with 11 from Namibia, 5 from South Africa, and one each from Germany, Sweden, and Portugal. The solo men’s race boasts 129 entrants, including 62 Namibians, 40 South Africans, and 13 Germans. Other participants hail from Australia, Botswana, Brazil, Britain, Canada, France, Lebanon, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.In the team categories, 8 female and 80 male two-person teams and 32 female and 124 male four-person teams have registered. Additionally, 30 mixed teams will compete in this year’s race. For the half-dash solo race, 11 female and 68 male riders have entered, alongside 14 female and 44 male half-dash teams.A new age category has been introduced for cyclists over 50, applicable to the solo race and the two-person half-dash. The only age restriction is a minimum age of 16 on the event day.Economic and Charitable ImpactSelma Kaulinge, Nedbank Namibia’s Communications and PR Manager, highlighted the event’s economic and social impact: “With only a few days to go until Africa’s ultimate mountain biking race, we are thrilled to see this iconic endurance race continue to significantly boost our local economy. Each year, the race generates substantial economic activity in Windhoek and Swakopmund, increasing sales in food, fuel, and energising the entertainment and hospitality sectors. Over the race weekend, these cities come alive with visitors from around the world witnessing this incredible event.”Kaulinge also praised the race’s charitable initiatives: “The Dash not only challenges cyclists but also uplifts communities. Various charities use the event to raise awareness and funds for their causes. As money experts who do good, this aligns perfectly with our commitment to making a positive impact in Namibia. We look forward to many more years of growth, challenge, and contribution to our nation’s economy and society.”Sponsors and PartnersThe Nedbank Namibia Desert Dash is co-sponsored by Spar Maerua Mall, Toyota Indongo, Paratus, Hollard Insurance, Walvis Bay Salt, Ciovita, Cymot, Heineken, Coca-Cola, Radio Wave, Groove Mall, Welwitschia Hospital, Platz am Meer, Rudy Project, Namibia Cycling Federation, Langer Heinrich Uranium, and Bannerman Resources.Cyclists and fans alike can look forward to a thrilling race as the Nedbank Namibia Desert Dash marks two decades of pushing limits and celebrating the spirit of endurance.

20th Nedbank Namibia Desert Dash prepares to dazzle

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20th Nedbank Namibia Desert Dash prepares to dazzle

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