Mamello Rakotsoane
In a move to strengthen long-distance running in Lesotho, Alliance Insurance has once again partnered with Hillbusterz Running Club to host a 60-kilometre marathon scheduled for May 9 around Maseru.
Dubbed the Alliance Hillbusterz Long Last Run, the ultra-marathon is designed to help Basotho athletes prepare for international competitions, particularly the upcoming Comrades Marathon in South Africa.
Speaking on behalf of the organisers, Alliance Insurance’s Manager for Public Relations, Communications and Sponsorships, Limakatso Mokobocho, said the collaboration is driven by a shared vision to support local athletic talent.
“The sole purpose of this partnership with Hillbusterz is to support Basotho runners who have qualified to compete in the Comrades Marathon. We want to ensure they are fully prepared and confident when they represent the country,” she said.
The event marks an important addition to Lesotho’s athletics calendar as it offers elite runners a competitive platform on home soil ahead of one of the world’s toughest ultra-marathons.
The race will start and finish at Maseru Mall, taking runners through several areas across the capital. The route will pass through Bambatha, Ha Hoohlo, Stationeng, Fokothi, Domiciliary, Masoleng, Maqalika Dam, Khubetsoana, Mine Workers, Koalabata, Ha Tsosane, Khorong, Lancers Gap and Lesotho China Fellowship Collegiate.
The first stretch of the race will cover approximately 30 kilometres before athletes return along the same route to Maseru Mall, completing the demanding 60-kilometre distance.
Organisers say the course has been carefully designed to challenge runners physically and mentally, focusing on endurance, stamina and resilience — qualities essential for success in ultra-distance competitions such as the Comrades Marathon.
Although the race primarily targets athletes who have already qualified for the Comrades Marathon, organisers expect strong participation from the broader local running community.
The event is also seen as an opportunity to further promote the culture of long-distance running in Lesotho and encourage emerging athletes to test their limits in ultra-distance races.
During the launch, experienced runner Seatile Papashane of Mountain Runners Athletics Club was invited to share his journey in long-distance running with fellow athletes and guests.
Papashane revealed that he has earned two Comrades Marathon badges and two Alliance silver medals from previous races, including the Hillbusterz Last Long run.
Reflecting on his career, he spoke openly about the lessons he has learned from competing in demanding endurance races.
He explained that while the sport has brought moments of triumph, it has also presented challenges that have shaped his growth as an athlete.
“There are good moments and challenging moments in every race. But each experience builds strength, discipline and character,” he said.
Summary
- The event marks an important addition to Lesotho’s athletics calendar as it offers elite runners a competitive platform on home soil ahead of one of the world’s toughest ultra-marathons.
- Organisers say the course has been carefully designed to challenge runners physically and mentally, focusing on endurance, stamina and resilience — qualities essential for success in ultra-distance competitions such as the Comrades Marathon.
- The event is also seen as an opportunity to further promote the culture of long-distance running in Lesotho and encourage emerging athletes to test their limits in ultra-distance races.
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