Staff Reporters
The third edition of the Maseru City Run Marathon, set for February 23, is anticipated to continue its role as a catalyst for sports tourism in Lesotho, adding to its staggering healthy lifestyle and sports development mandates.
The annual road race, which is wholly run around Lesotho’s capital city, Maseru, has steadily drawn both local and international participants, amateurs and professionals contributing significantly to economic activity and promoting Lesotho as a vibrant sports destination.
Initially starting with just over 350 participants for the inaugural event in 2023, the second installment of the event in 2024 saw over 800 athletes taking part in various activities including 21.1km race, 10km race, 5km fun run, 1.6 km run for the children, and the 42.2 kilometre race which was only introduced in 2024.
The event also features an aerobics session at Maseru Club grounds and inclusivity-focused races, such as a category for people with disabilities and a tailored kids’ race, making it a family-friendly affair.
This year, with over 500 participants already registered ahead of the January 31 late registration deadline, the number of attendees is expected to surpass previous records.
“We have been witnessing a steady growth over the last three years. For instance, this year we already have 82 registered international runners, and this is a huge improvement from the other past years,” said Race Manager Thabo J. Tšoeute in an interview with Newsday.
“We are also seeing sponsors beginning to attach more value in Maseru City Run with new ones coming in.”
Tšoeute’s sentiments come in the wake of Nedbank Lesotho pumping in M100 000 in sponsorship money for the race.
Speaking on the Nedbank sponsorship, Tšoeute expressed gratitude for the bank’s support, highlighting the significance of the sponsorship in enhancing the quality and visibility of the marathon.
“This sponsorship comes at a critical time as we prepare to host what we believe will be our most successful marathon yet. With Nedbank’s support, we can ensure a well-organised event that leaves a lasting impact on our participants and the community at large.”
Another notable race sponsor is Newsday Media, which comes on board for the second year running as a media partner.
Maseru City Run Marathon continues to serve as more than just a sporting event, as it is a platform for promoting fitness, unity, and community spirit.
The annual event is also proving to be a significant economic accelerator through stimulating economic activity through increased demand for hospitality services, restaurants, and other local businesses.
With registration still open, both professional and amateur runners are encouraged to participate in what is shaping up to be one of Lesotho’s most celebrated athletic events.
Recapping on the past 2024 race, local athletes Tšepang Mokhethi (male), who clocked in at 02:24:52 hours and Refiloe Khechane (female) who finished in 03:25:33 hours won the standard 42.2-kilometer marathon.
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 veteran marathoner, 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 Letšela Ntebaleng (44:48), and Mphotleng Koeshe in 55:41 minutes.
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