The 21st Edition of the Nedbank Desert Dash Kicks Off
Nedbank Namibia officially launched the 21st edition of the Nedbank Desert Dash on Wednesday, marking another milestone in one of the country’s most iconic sporting events. This year’s race will see over 1,000 cyclists embark on a 401km journey from the Grove Mall in Windhoek to the Platz Am Meer Waterfront in Swakopmund. The event is scheduled to take place from 5 to 6 December, with registration opening in June and closing in September.
At the launch event held in Windhoek, Jo-Ann Manuel, Director of Sport in the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, praised the race for its 21 years of “hard work, innovation, dedication, and passion.” She emphasized that the event is more than just a race; it is a true test of endurance, mental strength, and human spirit.
Manuel also highlighted recent sporting achievements in Namibia, such as the Namibia Cricket Team defeating the South African Proteas in a recent Twenty-20 match in Windhoek and the success of Namibian cyclists at the Nedbank Gravel Burn in South Africa. These accomplishments reflect the growing presence of Namibia in global sports.
She further noted the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that sports development is inclusive and that talent identification provides opportunities for all Namibians.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The Mayor of Swakopmund, His Worship Blasius Goraseb, spoke about the significance of the Nedbank Desert Dash for the region. He described the event as one of Namibia’s most iconic sporting events and a key moment in the country’s tourism and economic calendar.
Goraseb explained that the race stimulates economic activity in small businesses and showcases the unique beauty and warmth of the coastal community. He expressed deep gratitude to Nedbank Namibia and its partners for their commitment to promoting sports, tourism, and environmental sustainability. Together, he said, they demonstrate how sport can unite people, drive development, and inspire future generations.
Race Format and Innovations
This year’s edition of the Nedbank Desert Dash features several categories, including a solo dash (full and half), a two-person team dash (full and half), and a four-person team dash (full). A new addition to the race is the use of aero bars for the full solo category, which allows riders to adopt a more aerodynamic position. This innovation reduces wind resistance, increases speed, and helps conserve energy.
Event organizer Leander Borg of LEMA Events confirmed that solo riders will start earlier at 14:00 to reduce the likelihood of being overtaken by team riders through a technique known as “slipping.” Two-person teams will start at 14:30, and four-person teams at 15:00.
Financial Health Campaign
JG van Graan, Chief Commercial Officer of Nedbank Namibia, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to the event and its broader impact. He introduced the bank’s new brand campaign named #GetMoneyFit, which emphasizes the importance of financial health.
“These two initiatives speak directly to our role as a bank that’s deeply invested in the well-being of Namibians. The Nedbank Desert Dash showcases grit, teamwork, and the power of community. And with #GetMoneyFit, we’re tackling a challenge that affects us all: financial health. By launching these together, we are reinforcing that Nedbank is here to support you in pushing boundaries, whether on the bike or in your budget,” Van Graan said.
Partnerships and Economic Boost
Nedbank Namibia, in collaboration with Indongo Toyota, unveiled a refreshed Nedbank Desert Dash vehicle asset finance campaign. This initiative offers competitive rates on selected vehicles from the Indongo Toyota Showroom.
The Nedbank Desert Dash has played a pivotal role in elevating cycling in Namibia, helping local talent gain international recognition. The event significantly boosts sports tourism, injecting millions of dollars annually into the local economy. It benefits restaurants and other small to medium enterprises in Windhoek and Swakopmund.
Global Participation
The event attracts participants and spectators from various countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zimbabwe, South Africa, the United States of America, and Germany. This international participation underscores the event’s growing appeal and influence.
(from left to right): Nedbank Namibia Chief Commercial Officer, JG van Graan; Mayor of Swakopmund, Blasius Goraseb; Director of Sport in the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, Jo-Ann Manuel; Nedbank Desert Dash Race Organiser, Leander Borg; Hollard Head of Corporate Communication & Transformation, Sam Kauapirura; Indongo Toyota General Manager, Miranda Bosman; and SuperSpar Store Manager, Jose Figueira.