The 2nd leg of the much-anticipated Bank Windhoek Grand Prix, which is set to kick off this weekend at the Windhoek Independence Stadium.

About 284 athletes have already booked their places in this competition according to organisers. Following a success first leg, which was held in Oshakati last year December, Athletics Namibia has decided to increase the prize money in the second leg of this illustrious competition from N$45 000 to N$61 700 to boost the growing popularity of track and field competitions in the country.

A total of 33 events will be held, which will see the pole vault event being introduced in the three-leg series for the first time. "The significant increase of participants in the Bank Windhoek Grand Prix is very encouraging and shows that we are on track in reviving athletics in the country" said Frank Fredericks, President of Athletics Namibia.

He went on to add that the Grand Prix Series will also serve as a good opportunity for athletes to qualify for the IAAF World Championships that will take place in Moscow later this year. A 60-m challenge for both retired and active male athletes will also culminate in some of the fun events planned for the day, where the winner has an opportunity to walk away with N$2 000.

All sports enthusiasts, media houses, companies and the general public are welcome to enter in the 60-m challenge. The entry fee is N$50. The morning session of the Bank Windhoek Grand Prix will start at 09h00 - 12h00 at the Windhoek Independence Stadium, while the afternoon session will commence at 14h00 in the afternoon. Entrance is free.