Running in Lesotho is fast becoming more than just a sport. It is becoming a lifestyle, a livelihood and a powerful vehicle for social connection.
From the community jogging clubs that gather at dawn in our villages to elite athletes on the international stage, the culture of running is surging. And this transformation is more evident in the heart of the capital city, Maseru.
Last Sunday, the fourth edition of the Nedbank Maseru City Run transformed Maseru into a vibrant sea of green, suggesting that road running is increasingly moving from the fringes and becoming a social urban activity.
The streets were painted green as a record-breaking crowd took off from the iconic Makoanyane Square, finishing amidst cheers at the Maseru Club. This year’s edition attracted over 3,300 participants, more than double last year’s 1,400 athletes.
This exponential growth firmly positions Maseru City Run not just as a race, but as the Kingdom’s flagship marathon and a cornerstone of Maseru’s social calendar.
The turnout reflected a cross-generational passion for the tarmac from children, Under-12s, Juniors, Veterans, Masters, and Grand Masters. In total, 3,308 runners officially crossed the timing mats, underscoring a rapid nationwide interest in fitness and road racing.
The event’s prestige was bolstered by the participation of the Royal Family. Her Majesty Queen ’Masenate Mohato Seeiso completed the 10km race, while Crown Prince Lerotholi Seeiso tackled the 21km event. Princess Senate Seeiso also joined the festivities in the 5km category.
Government officials also joined in the action. Motlatsi Maqelepo, the Minister of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture completed the 10km alongside Lesotho Sports and Recreation Commission’s President, Baba Malephane.
“It is a great honour to see the Royal Family taking part in different categories, which shows the importance of sport in our society. This marathon is more than just a race, it is a driver of tourism and a positive boost to our economy,” Maqelepo said.
He emphasised that growing regional participation strengthens Lesotho’s economy and enhances its global profile.
The marathon is rapidly gaining traction beyond our borders, with over 300 runners traveling from South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. Crucially, the 42.2km course is now a certified official qualifier for both the Comrades Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon, elevating Maseru’s status on the continental running calendar. Organisers are now eyeing the World Athletics Calendar to draw global elites to our high-altitude terrain.
Event organiser Tšotleho Tšoeute from Eventful Moments expressed pride in the execution of the race but reminded the growing community of novice runners to stay safe.
“Beginners need to start with the shortest time. They should rather start running for 15 minutes out and 15 minutes back to see where challenges come up, and increase the pace if need be,” he advised.
Tšoeute further urged first-time runners to consult medical professionals before beginning training and emphasised the importance of proper running shoes and gradual progression to avoid injuries.
“Shoes are made for different purposes, so it is essential that the right type is used for running,” he said.
One of the standout performers in the 42.2km race, Tšepo Ramashamole, admitted he had minimal preparation but used the race as a stepping stone toward the Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town this April.
“I did not prepare enough for this race, but I wanted to challenge myself and get ready for the Two Oceans Marathon. I did not even consider the finishing time, as this was just practice,” Ramashamole said.
He revealed that he had also competed in the Pirates Half Marathon the previous week, finishing third a tougher race that served as preparation for bigger ambitions.
The winners were as follows:
42km Men: Khoarahlane Seutloali, Tšepo Ramashamole, and Tšepang Mokhethi.
42km Women: ’Mathabo Mapheelle, RefiloeKhechane, and Velicity Maseko.
21km: ’MopenyaneLebelo, Kabelo Lesia, and Tšeliso Masiu.
10km Men: Lebakeng Morobane, Tšepo Mathibelle, and Thabiso Ramaisa.
10km Women: Likeleli Majara, ’Mathakane Letsie, and Reitumetse Thethana.
5km: male, Polaki Molao and female: LineoMoraba
Summary
- From the community jogging clubs that gather at dawn in our villages to elite athletes on the international stage, the culture of running is surging.
- Last Sunday, the fourth edition of the Nedbank Maseru City Run transformed Maseru into a vibrant sea of green, suggesting that road running is increasingly moving from the fringes and becoming a social urban activity.
- This marathon is more than just a race, it is a driver of tourism and a positive boost to our economy,” Maqelepo said.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
