Seabata Mahao
Local athletes Tšepang Mokhethi (male) and Refiloe Khechane (female) are the winners of the inaugural 42.2-kilometer marathon under the auspices of the annual Maseru City Run.
The marathon, which recently gripped the city, is the only race wholly run around Maseru city, offering runners a sneak peek into what the tiny city holds.
On Sunday the Maseru central business district (CBD) streets were overflowing with spectators and participants from within Lesotho, Southern Africa and as far as Europe, as the event combined the city’s vibrant spirit of athleticism with its hospitality.
In its second edition, Maseru City Run featured the standard marathon for the first time, apart from the pre-existing half-marathon, 10km, and 5km races.
In the males’ full marathon race, Mokhethi crossed the finish line at 02:24:52 hours, while Khechane clocked in at 03:25:33 hours in the females’ race.
Sello Morabaraba (02:31:25) and Teboho Noosi (02:31:31) finished second and third respectively in the males’ race, while Masoabi Tsoeu (03:28:34) and Lineo Lebotha (03:57:47) finished second and third in the females’ race.
The 21.1km marathon was won by Tsietsi Sello in 01:08:10 hours, followed by Rebone Sello (01:08:26), and Kabelo Lesia (01:08:46) in the males race.
‘Mathakane Letsie was the winner of the women’s 21.1km race clocking in at 01:25:32 hours, followed by Reitumetsi Thethana (01:28:38), and Antonia Von Buttlar in 01:57:34 hours.
Thabang Sekonyela won the men’s 10km race in 34:00 minutes, followed by Moeketsi Mosuhli (34:46), and Senzo Fombatha in 35:00 minutes.
The female 10km race was won by Nthabiseng Letokoto in 42:42 minutes, followed by Letsela Ntebaleng (44:48), and Mphotleng Koeshe in 55:41 minutes.
Speaking after the race, Samuel Rapapa, who is one of the event organisers said the event was not just a competition but also an emblem of hope and inclusivity. He said sports have the ability to bring unity among the people.
“We would like to thank all the participants, the stakeholders, the government of Lesotho and the public for making this dream a reality once again,” he said.
The Minister of Sports, Tourism, Arts and Culture, Motlatsi Maqelepo, who graced the event, commended Maseru City Run for organising a successful event, which also commemorated the ongoing bicentennial celebrations through a 5km walk.
“I am happy that the event also celebrated the participation of individuals with disabilities and recognised them for their efforts, motivating them to pursue their goals and aspirations,” Maqelepo said.
