Sport enthusiasts, amateur athletes and nature lovers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city in favour of scenic views and fresh air will be pleased to know that Standard Bank Winter X-trail series kicks off on 3 June 2018 with the Khomas-Hochland Xtrail in the mountains of the Khomas-Hochland.
The coveted annual event will take place at Farm Godeis situated some 70 km west of Windhoek. The X-Trails are the ideal opportunity to walk or run, while taking in the fresh air and beautiful Khomas-Hochland Mountains, surrounded by family and friends.
“The Standard Bank X-Trails have become a key feature in the rising sport of running, amidst the growing trend of lifestyle sports locally. As a financial institution we understand the importance sport plays in the physical well-being of those taking part and at the same time brings communities together,” said Standard Bank’s PR and Communication Manager, Surihe Gaomas-Guchu said of the upcoming event.
She stressed that physical activity also plays a vital role in sustaining good mental health, the Bank is therefore proud to be sponsoring this event once again.
The trails encompass winding rigged riverbeds, steep climbs and stunning gorges, offering an exceptional variety of terrain and scenery. Each challenge tests the mental resolve and physical endurance of participants while promising an enriching achievement at the finish line.
“The Khomas-Hochland X-trail allows participants the option to choose between 7km or 16km trails, while they can compete in teams of two or three people, and can choose to run or walk the routes which have stunning views across the Khomas-Hochland Mountains. No reminders of city life, just pure veldt,” she stressed.
Gaomas-Guchu added that the annual event has grown from strength to strength, so the bank understands its importance and value it has for the participants. Trail-running/walking has seen tremendous growth in recent years and provides adventurous spirits with a healthy opportunity to get out and enjoy nature, all the while staying fit.
“This is the 3rd year the series is taking place, as such OTB Sport would like to thank Standard Bank for its support, generous sponsorship and initiative in sponsoring the X-trail series for a third year in a row. We would also like to thank the Bank for putting trail running on the map for Namibia, which has so much to offer in terms of beauty, nature and variety,” said OTB Sport’s Yvonne Brinkmann said.
The second in the Standard Bank trail series takes place at Avis X-Trail at the Avis Dam on 8 July. This year, runners have an additional race to look forward to with the Windhoek Light Midgard X-Trail occurring on the 5 August 2018. The 4th and final event is the Swakopmund Dune X-Trail which will take place on the 22 September.
The 16km event will start at 9 a.m. and the 7km at 9.30 a.m. The first 300 entries will receive an event shirt free of charge. Entry forms are available online at www.otbsport.com. Online entries close Wednesday 30 May at 12pm.