07 Dec 2022

Plans are afoot for the second edition of the First National Bank Botswana (FNBB) Kazungula Bridge Marathon slated for February 25, 2023.

Marathon chief executive officer, Obert Morgan, told a media briefing in Gaborone on Tuesday that registration was ongoing and they were targeting 5 000 participants.

Morgan said the preparations were going well with some sponsors having come on board to join FNBB.

The spectacle, which aims to rebuild the communities in Kasane and surrounding areas by boosting sports tourism against the backdrop of the iconic Kazungula Bridge  would comprise the 42.2 km, 21 km and 10 km races, as well as the 5km fun run, he said.

FNBB communications and public relations manager, Boga Chilinde-Masebu, said the bank had increased sponsorship from P1 million to P1.5m, adding next year’s marathon would be more inclusive to allow for runners with disabilities.

She said the bank was intentional about giving this year’s participants an enhanced experience, ‘which is what motivated the increase of sponsorship’.

Chilinde-Masebu further noted that FNBB did not only practice health and well-being, but also believed in the principles of shared value.

“As a bank, our shared value promise encourages us to seek opportunities that can empower and enable sustainable growth,” she added.

She said the marathon would have a total of P550 000 in prize money, inclusive of cash prizes of up to P50 000 for runners with disabilities, as a way of continuing to recognise all sporting achievements, regardless of body type, age and physical ability.

Chilinde-Masebu urged Batswana to register and participate in large numbers and invited people to visit to marvel at the wonders of Botswana and Zambia, while also empowering citizens of both countries. ENDS