The Nedbank Desert Dash returns this Friday, 5 December, and Saturday, 6 December, taking riders from the Grove Mall in Windhoek to the Platz Am Meer in Swakopmund.
More than 1 000 cyclists from across the globe are expected to take part in the world’s longest single-stage moutain bike event – a grueling 24-hour race through the Namib Desert, covering 401 km across the oldest desert in the world.
First held in 2005 with just 45 riders, the Nedbank Desert Dash has grown into a premier endurance event.
Race organiser Leander Borg from LEMA Events expressed his excitement about this year’s race. ‘Everything is falling into place at the right time. Preparations are going well, and we hope everyone who has entered shows up. The weather forecast looks favourable, with typical sunny conditions, and this year’s additions build on last year’s changes, which were widely welcomed by cyclists.’
Borg also paid tribute to the sponsors, noting that their support is key to the success of the dash and adding that they’re looking forward to continued partnerships. He added that organisers will keep introducing innovations to ensure the race remains challenging and exciting.
Cyclists will compete in the following categories
- The solo dash (half and full dash – male and female)
- The 2-person team dash (half and full dash – male, female, and mixed)
- The 4-person team dash (full dash – male, female, and mixed)
Nedbank Namibia’s Chief Commercial Officer, JG van Graan, praised the organisers for their continuous commitment and creativity. ‘I’m personally thrilled to be part of the 4-man full-dash team alongside my dedicated Nedbank Namibia colleagues. I’m also looking forward to hosting our Managing Director of Nedbank Mozambique, Joel Rodrigues, and commend his dedication to participate in the demanding 2-man full dash. The participation of colleagues from Nedbank Africa Regions shows how the Desert Dash continues to grow in stature.’
Van Graan highlighted that the Nedbank Desert Dash will generate significant economic value, particularly for Swakopmund, with many people, including cyclists, support teams, organisers, volunteers, the media, and fans, gathering over the weekend.
He also emphasised that the race plays a huge role in develping cycling in Namibia by giving local cyclists the chance to compete against international athletes and gain valuable experience for global events.
The Nedbank Desert Dash is proudly sponsored by Nedbank Namibia as the title sponsor, alongside Indongo Toyota, Hollard, Paratus, and SuperSpar Maerua, and the Grove. Event partners include Coca-Cola, Mannies Bike Mecca, Ciovita, Heineken, Platz Am Meer, Walvis Bay Salt, Radio Wave, Slow Town Coffee Roasters, Named Sport Superfood, Innovations Clearspan Tents, Rudy Projects, the Grove Mall, Langer Heinrich Uranium, Welwitschia Hospital, and Bennerman Resources as co-sponsors.
SUPPLIED.
