Seabata Mahao
Tsikoane Community Tours, in collaboration with the Tsikoane community, has re-launched the annual Tsikoane Marathon after pausing due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The event aims to give back to the community, promote sports development, and benefit the people at large through a 21-kilometer half marathon to be held in the Tsikoane community in Leribe.
The marathon is scheduled for July 21, 2024, with a low registration fee of M50 for both local and international participants. The event has already secured sponsorship of M4 000 with more sponsors expected to contribute, and the final prices will be announced soon.
Tlali Tlali, Managing Director of Tsikoane Community Tours, stated that the marathon is open to everyone interested in participating. He emphasised that the goal is to improve the lives of Tsikoane residents by developing the community and boosting the local economy.
“The marathon used to be very popular before the COVID-19 pandemic, and we are looking forward to restoring that standard. The race will start and finish at Linotšing ground in Ha-Mokokoana,” Tlali said.
At the launch ceremony, the President of the Lesotho Sports and Recreational Committee (LSRC), Litšitso Motšeremeli, expressed full support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of sports in modern life.
“Sports are not just for leisure; they are a way of living and can significantly impact people’s lives. Seeing the community appreciate sports and willing to make the best out of it is a sign of progress in Lesotho. I urge professional athletes and the community at large to register for this marathon and stand a chance to win various prizes,” Motšeremeli stated.
Marathon trainer, Chaplin Mpomane, speaking on behalf of the athletes, encouraged the Tsikoane community to take part in the marathon, emphasising the long-term benefits.
“Most athletes come from areas like Tsikoane, so they should not doubt themselves. Leribe does not have many marathons, and this event has not been held for a long time. We need to promote our local marathon runners because the government’s support cannot cover every sporting activity in our country. I urge Lesotho’s corporates to create a forum with athletes to discuss ways to support and develop sports in the country. Investors should be mandated to support these kinds of initiatives as part of their Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR),” Mpomane said.
The Tsikoane Marathon, established in 2010, initially offered a monetary prize of M1 500 to the top five finalists.
