The Absa Summer Kids Marathon returns this year to promote fitness, health, and sportsmanship among the youth, according to event organisers.
Scheduled for April 26th at the iconic Three Dikgosi Monument in Gaboroneโs Central Business District, the event will host approximately 1,500 young participants, making it the largest and most impactful marathon to date, says lead organiser Martin Fani.
โThis yearโs theme, โForever Young and Active,โ embodies our mission to encourage kids to adopt fitness and health as a lifestyle,โ Fani stated in an interview.ย
โWe want them to remain vibrant and energeticโnot just physically, but in all aspects of their lives, from school to home to play.โ
Preparations began in September 2023 with an Independence Activation event, reintroducing children to the excitement of the race after a long hiatus. Fani highlighted the eventโs success, noting the enthusiasm of children proudly wearing the national colors of blue, black, and white.
โTheir energy and enthusiasm were incredible,โ Fani said. โIt reminded us why we do thisโto inspire and bring joy to children while promoting healthy habits from a young age.โ
This year, the marathon aims to be both complaint- and injury-free. To ensure this, organisers have meticulously planned the event, hiring a professional venue planner for a spacious layout and securing quality medals, T-shirts, and other essentials in advance.
The Early Bird registration phase closed on December 31, 2024, with 263 children registeredโfar surpassing the initial target of 150 participants.
โThis overwhelming turnout reflects the trust parents have in this initiative,โ Fani said. โItโs a clear sign that weโre on the right track.โ
Standard registration is currently open at a fee of P250 per child, covering a running T-shirt, a goody bag, a medal, and hydration supplies. The registration deadline is March 31, 2024. Fani urged parents to register early, stressing that only those signed up by the deadline will be accommodated.
โWeโre only catering to the number of kids registered by the deadline,โ he emphasised. โThis ensures that every participant receives the full experience they deserve.โ
This year, the marathon will expand its reach through regional activations in Palapye, Maun, Jwaneng, Francistown, and Letlhakane. These activations will feature aerobics sessions, warm-ups, short runs, and health-focused activities.
โWe want every child in Botswana to feel part of this movement,โ Fani said. โBeyond fitness, weโre incorporating cleanup campaigns and other activities to make these events both fun and impactful.โ
Organisers are also introducing new merchandise, including shorts, tights, socks, and bucket hats in the vibrant red and white colors of title sponsor Absa Bank.
โOur goal is to create a unified, energetic atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of the marathon,โ Fani said.
Corporate social responsibility remains a cornerstone of the marathon. Last year, organisers donated sportswear and shoes to children at Kareng Primary School Hostel in the Northwest District. This year, they plan to identify more deserving beneficiaries, ensuring the marathon leaves a lasting positive impact.
โWeโre not just about running,โ Fani added. โWeโre about uplifting communities and making a difference in childrenโs lives across the country.โ
Fani expressed gratitude to sponsors and partners, including Absa Bank and the Ministry of Sports, for their support. He also called on other organisations to join the initiative.
โWeโre actively seeking new sponsors to ensure this event continues to grow and benefit even more children,โ he said. โItโs not just an investment in a marathonโitโs an investment in the future of our children.โ
With just over three months to go, organizers are determined to deliver an unforgettable experience for participants and their families.
โOur commitment is to deliver a well-organised, memorable event that puts smiles on childrenโs faces,โ Fani said.ย
โTogether, we can inspire a generation to embrace health, fitness, and community spirit.โ
