The first edition of the Chobe Kids Bridge Run held over the weekend has marked a major milestone in promoting local sport development, attracting over 200 young runners from Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Zambia.
The event was open to children aged between 2 to 16 years, among them those with disabilities. Runners participated in different categories which included 100m toddler dash (opened for children aged between 2 to 3 years), 500m fun run (4 –6 years), 1km (7–9 years), 2km (10–12 years) and 5km (13–16 years).
The Chobe Kids Bridge Run offered a unique and exciting experience for the runners allowing them to traverse the magnificent Kazungula Bridge.
The event also offered more than just a sporting experience, as it brought together families and communities from different backgrounds to interact, learn and have fun through different entertainment activities. Some of the stakeholders offered learning materials to the runners during the event in an effort to promote education.
All the participants were rewarded with medals, certificates, and refreshments, while the top runners walked with trophies, school supplies and gift packs.
In an interview, the event Coordinator, Maungo Tshito said the main objective of the marathon was to promote healthy lifestyles among children through physical activity. Tshito noted that the event was also a platform for young runners to have fun and safe space to enjoy sport.
She said that through the event they strife to foster early development, confidence, and discipline through running, and encourage more youth involvement in sport from a grassroots level.
In his remarks, Member of Parliament for Chobe, Simasiku Mapulanga has hailed the marathon, noting that it plays a very important role in promoting sports tourism, instilling discipline and promoting healthy lifestyles.
Mapulanga said that the event has also played a significant role in stimulating the local economy, as some visitors spent on accommodation and food, supporting local entrepreneurs. He urged the runners to refrain from drug and substance abuse but focus on activities that can help improve on their health and future.
For his part, Zambezi Runners and Aerobics Team Coordinator, Fitzjohn Muleya said that it was interesting for them as Zambians to have been part of the event, adding that they are looking forward to work together with the organisers. He noted that the event promotes mental health, which is very important in the children’s academic life.
