WINDHOEK, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Namibia on Wednesday officially launched the 21st edition of the Nedbank Desert Dash, renowned as the world's longest single-stage mountain bike race.

The 24-hour, 401 km race from Windhoek to Swakopmund across the Namib Desert will take place on December 5 to 6, and it is set to attract over 1,000 cyclists from around the globe.

"It is a true test of endurance, mental strength, and human spirit," said Jo-Ann Manuel, Director of Sport in the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts, and Culture, at the launch in Windhoek.

Manuel said the event is also set to stimulate business in Windhoek and the coastal city of Swakopmund, as it contributes to Namibia's sports tourism industry.

Supporting Manuel, the mayor of Swakopmund, Blasius Goraseb, said the Nedbank Desert Dash has become one of Namibia's most iconic sporting events and, for Swakopmund, represents a significant moment in the Namibian tourism and economic calendar.

"The Nedbank Desert Dash stimulates economic activity in small businesses, and it showcases the unique beauty and warmth of our coastal community," he added.

Cyclists will compete in the following categories: solo dash (full and half), two-person team dash (full and half), and four-person team dash (full). ■