The 2021 Nedbank Desert Dash was officially launched here on Tuesday, with the announcement of an additional 20 kilometres (km) to the original 373km desert race.
The event will take place on 10 and 11 December from Windhoek to Swakopmund, with 250 cyclists registered in the solo category, making it a national record.
Besides the solo category, more cyclists have been registered to compete in the two-person teams as well as the four-person teams.
Speaking at the launch, Nedbank Namibia’s Executive for Retail and Business Banking, Richard Meeks said since 1986, Nedbank Namibia’s dedication to the sport of cycling has delivered the first competitive bicycle race in Namibia.
“Namibia’s developing reputation as a competent host of major cycling events is evidenced by its staging of International Cycling Union sanctioned races. However, the Nedbank Desert Dash extends beyond sports development,” said Meeks, who added that they are thrilled to each year see many participants’ families making it to Swakopmund to support cyclists.
The Nedbank Desert Dash has been in existence for more than two decades, with Nedbank being the platinum sponsor since 2015.
Chief Executive Officer of the Swakopmund Municipality, Alfeus Archie Benjamin said after a few difficult months, they are excited to once again be part of the Desert Dash.
“The event brings a lot of money to the economy of our town and for the past two years Nedbank and the municipality have been working on a number of projects that benefit charities in this town,” he said.
He added that the event has always attracted top international riders, which gives Namibians an opportunity to test themselves against international competitors in their own backyard.
This year will see international riders coming from countries such as Germany, Portugal, Canada, Belgium, Serbia, France, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Ireland, Botswana, Malawi, South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Source: The Namibian Press Agency