26 Jul 2016

Over 2 000 runners are expected at the Orange Phikwe National Marathon on Saturday. Orange Botswana would sponsor the event at a tune of over P200 000.

Speaking during a fun run in Gaborone on July 24, Selebi Phikwe mayor, Amogelang Mojuta, said they were ready to welcome local mining town.

“It is with great pleasure and excitement that we are looking forward to the Orange Phikwe National Marathon. Events such as this one pump life into the mining town and bring us together as residents of the mining town to work together towards a successful race,” he said.

The marathon would feature four race categories namely: the 42.2km marathon as the main race, 15km and 4km fun run and is open to runners across the age spectrum ranging from professional runners to amateurs and children with winners of the 42.2km, 15km, 10km and veteran races winning P25 000, P7 500, P5 000 and P2 000 respectfully.

As the only IAAF accredited marathon in Botswana, the Selebi Phikwe marathon would be used as a pre-qualifier for the 2017 edition of the Africa Championships.
Registration for the marathon closed on July 26.

Speaking during the Sunday event, Orange Botswana chief executive officer, Dr Patrick Benon said  they were always looking for avenues within which they could  support and contribute significantly to the growth and development of sport.

“The Phikwe marathon is our first partnership in the athletics space and we are very excited to be breaking new ground as an organisation. We are looking forward to a bigger and better edition of the marathon this year,” he said.

After the race, runners and Selebi Phikwe residents ould be treated to fun and entertainment at the Orange Togetherness Celebration music festival. The festival would feature Dr Malinga, Heavy K, DJ Bino, Groovysouls and others.

According to Orange, the combination of the marathon and Orange Togetherness Celebration would not only reward and treat runners to fun filled entertainment but also raise funds for charity.

“The funds raised through the Orange Togetherness Celebration music festival will build a kitchen facility for the Young Women Christian Association (YWCA), which we trust will go a long way in helping the young mothers and out of school girls in Phikwe and surrounding areas,” he said.

Tickets for the After Party are available at Liquoramas in Phikwe, Francistown (Galo Mall), Palapye and Gaborone (Railpark). Ends