Haitope Wins, Paulus Takes Second as Namibia Impresses at Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon

Haitope Wins, Paulus Takes Second as Namibia Impresses at Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon. Namibia celebrated a proud moment on the regional athletics stage as Lavinia Haitope claimed victory in the women’s category of the Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon, held on Saturday in Gqeberha, South Africa. Her compatriot, Daniel Paulus, delivered an outstanding performance in the men’s race, finishing in second place.

The event drew elite runners from across Southern Africa, making the Namibian duo’s podium finishes all the more significant.

Both athletes were part of a Namibian delegation supported by the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, in collaboration with QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine. Their participation followed exceptional performances at the 2024 Navachab Half Marathon, a key national event in Namibia’s athletics calendar.

Speaking after her win, Haitope expressed gratitude for the support that enabled her to compete. “I’m proud to represent Namibia. Victories like this show what’s possible when athletes are given opportunities and support,” she said.

Officials praised the athletes for their performances, stating that their achievements reinforce the importance of investment in grassroots and elite sports development.