- FNBB injects P500k
Golden Door Sports Agency has been entrusted by World Athletics with the honor of hosting the inaugural Botswana International Cross-Country.
This event holds distinction within the World Athletics Continental Tour, as revealed by this publication.
According to the agency mouthpiece Calistus Kolantsho, the decision underscores the organisation’s confidence in the agency’s capability to deliver a world-class sporting spectacle, leading to the event’s designation as a Gold Status Cross Country Continental Tour series.
In a telephone interview, Kolantsho said World Athletics expressed admiration for Golden Door Sports Agency’s organizational prowess and highlighted the political stability and robust security of Botswana as pivotal factors in their decision.
“The country’s commitment to ensuring the safety of athletes further solidifies its reputation as a premier destination for international sporting events,” he said.
Kolantsho emphasised the significance of this opportunity, stating, “This is a huge opportunity for us as organisers. It also enhances the status of the Agency, given our concurrent responsibility for another Gold status event, the Botswana Golden Grand Prix.”
Set to take place on January 27, 2024, at the prestigious Gaborone Golf Club, the Botswana International Cross-Country is positioned to draw elite runners from across the globe. Participants in this event are eager to accrue essential points to enhance their rankings and secure coveted positions in the upcoming World Cross Country Championships in March.
“All active Cross Country athletes, both international and local, will be allowed to compete in this open event. For local runners, this presents a unique opportunity to not only showcase their skills but also contend for a spot on the national team participating in the World Cross Country Championships,” said Kolantsho.
Adding prestige to the occasion, the Botswana International Cross-Country is sponsored by FNBB to the tune of P500 000, further solidifying the event’s significance on the global sporting stage. FNBB is the largest commercial bank in the country. It provides a full range of banking services to individuals, businesses, large and small through our array of technologically driven services.
FNBB’s Director of Marketing, Peo Porogo commented: “Our interest in sports goes beyond traditional sponsorship; it reflects our dedication to shared value strategy which is aimed to ensure that communities within which FNB Botswana operates in are developed and they benefit from our success.”
“The substantial sponsorship amount we have made will go towards planning, organising, and hosting the Botswana International Cross Country as well as prize money for the running athletes.”
As anticipation builds for this landmark event, runners and spectators alike are gearing up for a display of unparalleled athleticism against the breathtaking backdrop of Botswana’s capital. Golden Door Sports Agency’s successful bid to host this prestigious competition marks a defining moment for the nation, positioning it as a beacon for top-tier sporting events in the region and beyond.