The inaugural Gubungano marathon to be held in Francistown next year is expected to attract patronage from race enthusiasts across the country and particularly residents of the second city.
Organisers says they expect the 15 July 2023 marathon to make a positive impact and enable the future editions to become easy to organise and stimulate patriotism.
“The main objective of the marathon is to revive the city and support its youth and small business,” revealed Carlos Sebina, race marathon organizer of CS Challenge.
Sebina disclosed that the money accrued from the marathon will be used to support small businesses and help the qualified unemployed youth to start businesses.
“We will be giving the unemployed a kick-start to venture into business and create employment for others,” said Sebina.
He noted that “the support we will be giving them will give them hope and enable them to make profits for themselves and later become role models for others. It is possible for anyone to start business”.
Gubungano marathon is accredited by the Botswana Athletics Association. The organizers are in talks with the Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) for its inclusion in the BTO annual activities calendar. There is already buy-in from Francistown local authorities and the business community. The organisers intend to reveal the sponsors early next year.
Sebina, who is also a football administrator, is passionate about sport. He wants to improve the lives of ordinary citizens.
“I have a passion for assisting people to improve their lives. Sport is a vehicle that can be used to unite and improve lives. Sport brings people together. Collective effort is better to achieve goals and objectives. Other sport activities will be lined towards elevating poverty and social status of the unfortunate people. In the past we have donated to schools in Francistown to make the school environment conducive for learning,” explained Sebina.
The marathon is expected to start at the iconic Obed Itani Stadium and go through malls and some wards.
Registration is ongoing at P200 for a 5km race, 10km for P300, half marathon (21.1km) for P350 and the main race 42.2 for P400. Registration closes on the 7th March 2023.
