Namport Nedbank PH Challenge in collaboration with Luderitz Crayfish Festival officially Launches

Windhoek, March 18 — Namport, Nedbank Namibia and Powerhouse Cycling Club announced their first ever
joined cycling event which is set to take place in Luderitz on 2-3 May 2025 and in Walvis Bay on 1 – 2
November 2025.
On the day of the announcement, which took place at the4 Sea View Restaurant in the southern town, the Luderitz Crayfish Festival Trust officially endorsed the event as the sponsoring hosts, and officially named the event, the Namport Nedbank PH Challenge in collaboration with Luderitz Crayfish Festival.
The event aims to encourage cyclists of all levels to participate and enjoy the thrill of competitive racing while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
With a sponsorship from Namport and Nedbank Namibia, the two entities affirmed their commitment to supporting sporting initiatives that bring communities together and promote wellness. This partnership aligns with their broader efforts to invest in initiatives that foster development and engagement across Namibia. The cycling events will be sanctioned by the Namibian Cycling Federation to attract a wider and competitive audience.

The cycling races will include various distances in the mountain bike category, with 56km plotted for more experienced cyclists; and 50km and 100km in the road race category. The event will also feature a 5km, 10km and 21km running event for non-cycling participants. At the event launch, Namport Manager for Marketing and Stakeholder Engagement, Cliff Shikuambi, sad: ‘This event is not merely a collaboration between our organisations; it represents a shared vision
for fostering community engagement and promoting healthy lifestyles across Namibia. With great enthusiasm, I invite each one of us, to participate in this challenge, which embodies our collective commitment to enhancing the well-being of our communities, while also fostering community connections.’ Shikuambi added that their contribution will renew annually for the next three years.

Joao da Costa from the Powerhouse Cycling Club extended his appreciation on behalf of the club to thank all the parties involved in the event. As a club we are excited and privileged to have partnered with Namport, Nedbank Namibia, and the
Luderitz Crayfish Festival Trust,’ Da Costa said. He added: ‘This opportunity will aid Powerhouse Cycling Club in achieving its objectives which include developing and fostering cycling amongst its members and the community at large, encourage its members to participate in cycling at all levels, and continue the mission of promoting cycling in all
parts of Namibia.’
The Chairperson of the Lüderitz Crayfish Festival Trust, Clive Gawanab, says the organisers of the third biggest expo in the country welcome the event with great enthusiasm. “We have been giving consideration to incorporating a cycling event in the Lüderitz Crayfish Festival for quite a while, and seeing this vision come to fruition is quite pleasing. We have no doubt that the race will be spectacular, as it offers fresh challenges to cyclists in a singularly unique environment”.
Nedbank Namibia Managing Director, Martha Murorua, also expressed enthusiasm about the event, stating: The launch of this sporting series means a lot to us, as Nedbank Namibia – not just because of our passion for cycling but because it is happening right here in Luderitz. Nedbank Namibia has strong ties to this town. Nedbank Namibia opened its second branch here in Lüderitz back in May 1973, and we have been part of this community ever since. Our commitment goes beyond our banking footprint here, it is about investing in the people and the future of Lüderitz, helping it grow and thrive.’Murorua added: ‘Luderitz is a unique town – rich in history, breathtaking in its landscapes, and home to a strong, resilient community. But more than its past and present, Lüderitz has an exciting future
ahead. With Namibia leading the charge in the green hydrogen economy, Lüderitz is set to become a centre for sustainability and innovation. This shift will bring new jobs, fresh investments, and open doors to growth.’ Also speaking at the event was the mayor of Luderitz Town Council, Councillor Phillippus Balhao, who appealed to the Luderitz community to support the event. I appeal the community of Luderitz to assist in making the event a success through volunteering, as opportunities are available in the event logistics space. There is great hope that this cycling event will
be successful and enjoyable for all involved. The organisers have put in extensive effort to ensure that every detail is meticulously planned, from the race route to safety measures and entertainment. The event aims to provide a memorable experience for participants, spectators, and volunteers alike, fostering a sense of achievement and community spirit,’ Balhao said.
Further details about the event, including registration and route information, will be announced soon. Cyclists and supporters are encouraged to stay tuned for updates, particularly as the organisers are actively pursuing a variety of options to cater to the accommodation requirements for participating cyclists and their families.