Run Gabz By Night returns
After the success of the inaugural Run Gabz By Night (RGBN) Marathon last year, the second edition of the event on 17 August 2024, is gearing up to be bigger and better. The organizers, in partnership with Botswana Athletics Association (BAA), have already begun preparations and are committed to making this year’s race a memorable experience for all participants. With more people taking part and more support from the community, the RGBN Marathon is set to become one of the biggest and most anticipated night race in the country.
It has three exciting features: three crime prevention & response workshops, Team / corporate biggest weight loser competition and the existing Fan parks.
The RGBN Marathon will have the theme of ‘ending violence,’ with a special focus on gender-based violence. The marathon is using its platform to raise awareness and support for those affected by violence, with the goal of making a positive impact in the community.
Mbakiso Mawila, CEO and founder of the RGBN Marathon, announced that registration for the second season has been open since January 26th, 2024, and is ongoing. Additionally, the Marathon has introduced a new initiative for the second season, which allows participants to personalize their race T-shirts. This new feature adds a unique and memorable touch to the event, making it a truly one-of-akind experience.
He noted that In collaboration with the Botswana Police, the RGBN Marathon will host three workshops focused on crime prevention and response. These workshops will have a special focus on gender-based violence and will bring together representatives from neighborhood watch groups across the 10 police stations in Gaborone. The goal of these workshops is to educate and empower members of the community to take action against violence and to create a safer environment for all. “The second edition of RGBN promises to be even bigger than the first edition with participants from across the globe confirming that the Marathon fever has reached their countries. The highlight was a tweet by her Excellency, EU Ambassador to SADC Petra Pereyra wherein she approved the race and shared her sentiments with her colleagues back home,” Mawila said.
“In keeping up with their undertaking of transforming marathons in Botswana and indeed playing a significant role in the fight against NCDs, RGBN organizers have introduced yet another historic and exciting challenge called Team biggest loser challenge. A team is made up of 10 people. This is a unique challenge in that it sees teams / corporates competing with each other on a team weight loss challenge,” he added.
Mawila mentioned that within the first three weeks of registration, the 1,000 slots for Phase 1 were quickly filled. Registration is now in Phase 2, with 4,000 additional slots available. The registration fees for the race are 200 pula for the 5 km run, 250 pula for the 10 km run, and 300 pula for the 21 km run. Mawila noted that they are still seeking a title sponsor and additional partners for the event, in order to make it an unforgettable experience for all involved.