The 4th edition of the Kazungula Bridge Marathon that will be held on the 22nd February 2025 in Kazungula is expecting a bigger turn-up, following a positive response to the registration process which is currently underway by international athletes from Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia and South Africa.
In an interview with Times Sport, the marathon CEO Orbert Morgan said that every year they expect the marathon to grow by attracting more numbers. He noted that their target for this year is to attract over 6 000 athletes as compared to the 5 000 target they set last year.
Morgan noted that securing a sponsorship from the Ethiopian Airlines is a greater milestone at it would enable international athletes to cross the border to attend the event.
“Ethiopian Airlines land in Gaborone, Maun and Victoria Falls, very close proximity to Chobe. As part of our dream to attract international athletes we have found it very imperative to partner with the airline,” he said.
To ensure that the technical aspects of the marathon run smoothly, Morgan noted that they have engaged Gaborone Striders Runners Club which has an extensive experience in organising marathons. He stated that the technical team will be monitoring the road track, sport volunteers and making sure that the runners follow the right track among other things.
Morgan continued to emphasise the importance of the marathon in empowering the small businesses in Chobe and its benefits to the tourism industry.
Meanwhile, in 2023 FNBB as the main sponsor unveiled over P5 million as a three-year sponsorship for the Kazungula Bridge Marathon. Since the commencement of the marathon in 2022 FNBB has been the main sponsor and the 2023 deal was meant to cover the 2024 to 2026 editions.
When announcing the three-year sponsorship contract, FNBB CEO Steven Bogatsu had previously stated that the investments will go towards planning, organising and hosting the marathon. He stated that their vision for the marathon extends beyond sporting events as they strive to foster a sense of community, enjoyment and celebration among all participants. Bogatsu had expressed that the marathon is not only about winning but also about bringing people together to celebrate love for sports, showcasing the richness of cultures and heritage to the world.
Bogatsu noted the statistics from Botswana Tourism Organization (BTO) on the performance and impact of the marathon shows that 34% of the people who participated in the marathon were visiting Chobe for the first time.
