20 Feb 2025

The fourth edition of FNB Kazungula Bridge Marathon (KBM) will go ahead as planned on February 22 despite heavy rains in some parts of the country.

In an interview, KBM CEO and founder Obert Morgan pointed that the weather was pleasant in Chobe District with normal rain this week, adding that clear skies were expected on the day.

He said the marathon was internationally accredited and the race director providing technical expertise for the competition, had approved that it should proceed as planned.

Morgan stated that they were working closely with all key stakeholders in Chobe District, including local authorities and the Department of Meteorology for weather forecasts and alert in case the situation changed.

He said a total of 3 500 runners had registered to compete in the marathon which was a decline from 4 000 participants last year.

He attributed the decline to government departments and council’s non participation having cited lack of funds from their respective entities.

He said they were expecting participants from SADC countries, including Kenya, Zimbabwe, Namibia and South Africa as well as from USA, Asia and Europe.

The CEO said 70 slots were reserved for young and upcoming athletes in Chobe, an initiative that was introduced last year to unearth and nurture talent in Chobe.

Morgan highlighted that they were well prepared to ensure the marathon went smoothly to avoid last year’s confusion where the 42.2 km men’s race did not produce a winner as runners used two different routes.

He admitted that this was an error on the organisers’ part, which they took as a learning curve to tighten up any loose ends this year.

He indicated that they had engaged Gaborone Striders Runners Club to offer technical support on Saturday by ensuring routes were marked correctly with hydration stations installed appropriately.

Furthermore, he emphasised the importance of proper marshalling so that runners were directed accordingly more especially that Kazungula and Kasane were wildlife habitats.

Morgan said changes had been made to the start-off point of the 42.2 km race with take off being the same spot as the finish point unlike in the past where it commenced at kwa Nokeng Junction or Engen station.

He said the 42.2 km champion would pocket P75 000 from both men and women’s categories, while 21km champions would receive P25 000 each. The 10km, 5km and disabilities wheelchair winners will pocket P10 000, P5 000, P5 000 respectively. ENDS