Barefoot Region 5 race raises alarm over athlete welfare

Concerns have been raised over the safety and support provided to some Namibian athletes after several young runners were seen competing without shoes or proper athletic gear in the 3 000-metre race at the Region 5 Youth Games at Swakopmund’s Vineta Stadium.Photos taken during Monday’s event show athletes running barefoot on the newly refurbished synthetic track, a surface not designed for bare feet.The incident has prompted questions about the preparation and overall welfare of Namibia’s youth representatives at national sporting events. “These are children from underprivileged backgrounds, and to make them run barefoot in front of a whole region is deeply shameful,” social activist Marth Namhadi said. Namhadi said four children, representing Oshana, Ohangwena and Omusati regions, were affected, forced to take part without proper running shoes or team vests. A coach close to the team, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said: “One child was in red, another in white, another in blue – there was no uniformity, no identity on the track, and it was shameful."'Rough and spiky' conditions Criticism was also directed at the stadium’s resurfacing, which included newly laid track material and concrete aggregate that reportedly caused discomfort for the athletes.“The surface is rough and spiky. Even walking on it is painful. Now imagine children sprinting 3 000 metres on that with no shoes,” said Namhadi.Attempts by the media to interview the athletes were blocked by event officials, while several coaches declined to speak on record, citing fear of retribution.In touch with teamsWhen contacted for comment, the education and sports ministry acknowledged the problem and noted that support will be provided.“It’s obviously not an ideal situation, but unfortunately it’s something we’ve seen before,” said deputy minister Dino Ballotti.Ballotti further said he was reliably informed that some of the runners preferred to run without shoes. However, he did not dispute that the issue should be addressed. He said the ministry has reached out to team coaches to ensure affected athletes receive the necessary gear.Those wishing to donate shoes can contact 264 81 302 5688. The required shoe sizes include UK 8 (1 pair), UK 7 (3 pairs), UK 6 (2 pairs) and UK 4 (2 pairs).

Barefoot Region 5 race raises alarm over athlete welfare

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Namibian Sun 2025-10-16

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Barefoot Region 5 race raises alarm over athlete welfare

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Namibian Sun 2025-10-16

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