NNOC offers unique opportunity to the public

The Namibian National Olympic Committee (NNOC) is offering members of the public an opprtunity to form part of the group of runners/walkers that will carry the Baton of the Queen’s Baton Relay through Windhoek, Khomasdal and Katutura on 29 January.
The Queen’s Baton Relay began its 190,000km-long journey around Commonwealth countries in October last year. The event, similar to the Olympic Torch Relay, is held prior to the beginning of the Commonwealth Games which will be held later this year starting on 23 July 2014.

The Baton carries a message from the Head of the Commonwealth, Queen Elizabeth II. The Relay traditionally begins at Buckingham Palace in London as a part of the city’s Commonwealth Day festivities. The Queen entrusts the baton to the first relay runner. At the Opening Ceremony of the Games, the final relay runner hands the baton back to the Queen or her representative who reads the message aloud to officially open the Games.
“We want people of all walks of life to be part of this magnificent event,” said Joan Smit, General Secretary of the NNOC. She encouraged all interested parties to submit their names and contact details to the NNOC by latest Wednesday, 15 January.
The NNOC will select a number of runners/walkers to carry the baton around the capital, according to the places available. “Even if you carry the baton for a mere 10 meters, it is an opportunity not to be missed,” Smit said.
The NNOC is currently finalizing the route. The entire event will be covered by a TV crew from the BBC. Anyone interested can get in touch with the NNOC via e-mail at [email protected] or telephonically on 061 229285.