Lüderitz: Namport Nedbank Powerhouse Challenge

The coastal town of Lüderitz is gearing up to host the first-ever Namport Nedbank Powerhouse Challenge, a multi-discipline sporting event scheduled for Friday and Saturday. Organisers from the Powerhouse Cycling Club have confirmed that preparations are complete, with registration links distributed via PayToday and promotional materials already circulating on social media.

Formed in 2017 by a group of friends with a shared passion for cycling, Powerhouse Cycling Club began as a social initiative before becoming officially affiliated with the Namibia Cycling Federation in 2023. Now, with major backing from Namport and Nedbank Namibia, and two more sponsors expected to be announced shortly, the club is set to host a premier event that aims to put southern Namibia on the country’s sporting map.

According to Powerhouse Cycling Club secretary general Joao da Costa, the event has already generated notable interest.

“Registration closed on Monday. We expect around 80 cyclists and up to 150 marathon runners to participate,” he said.



The event is not just about competition, but about inclusivity and development.

“Our goal is to involve communities in the south where cycling events are rare. Most of these events take place in Windhoek, so we’re trying to decentralise the sport and encourage more people to take part – not just for the competition, but for the health and enjoyment that come with it,” Da Costa added.

Friday will feature mountain biking with 25km and 50km routes, alongside running events at 5km, 10km and 25km distances. On Saturday, the focus will shift to road cycling, with races over 50km and 100km.

Namport’s marketing and stakeholder engagement manager, Cliff Shikuambi, highlighted the company’s broader vision:

“As a national enterprise, our influence stretches into the country’s interior as much as it does along our coastlines. Our support for this challenge isn’t just about sport – it’s about investing in the wellbeing and development of communities across Namibia.”

He called on other corporate players to align with initiatives that drive lasting, nationwide impact.

“Sport unites, uplifts and builds a stronger society. Supporting such events is an investment in our country’s social fabric,” he emphasised.

From the financial sector, Nedbank Namibia’s communications and PR manager, Selma Kaulinge, echoed the same sentiments, emphasising the significance of the event for both sport and community growth.

“This event symbolises more than a race – it’s about community empowerment and future potential. Lüderitz is a town with exciting developments on the horizon, and Nedbank is proud to contribute to its growth through initiatives like this,” she said.

Kaulinge encouraged residents of Lüderitz, the wider Hardap and ||Kharas regions, as well as all Namibians to take part:

“Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a first-timer, come and be part of something special. Let’s run and ride together in celebration of unity, endurance and our shared passion for sport.”

Adding to the excitement, the Namport Nedbank Powerhouse Challenge will coincide with the Lüderitz Crayfish Festival, Namibia’s third largest public fair after the Windhoek Show and Ongwediva Trade Fair. The dual events are expected to draw crowds and generate a festive atmosphere in the town.

The official launch of the Powerhouse Challenge took place in March this year at the Sea View Restaurant in Lüderitz, where representatives from the Lüderitz Crayfish Festival Trust and sponsors unveiled the ambitious event.

Looking ahead, organisers have confirmed that a similar event is planned for Walvis Bay from 1 to 2 November, promising even more opportunities for Namibians to embrace sport, community and active living.