Africa-Press – Botswana. Moses Tarakinyu has emerged a winner in the 42.2km after clocking 2:15:17 in the Senior Men category at the Francistown BTC Marathon at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown on Saturday.
The 30-year-old Zimbabwe national bagged P35 000.He expressed gratitude for the victory in the BTC Marathon saying it was as a result of good preparations.
He said he was supposed to participate in the Ancient Marathon at the Netherlands but could not make it due to visa requirements, and therefore shifted here for the BTC Marathon. In the same race, Tawanda Burazwabaya got position two with a time of 2:21:58 and walked away with P25 000 while Owen Slowly finished on Position three after registering 2:24:21 and won P15000.
In the ladies category, Lesedi Tumelo achieved an impressive victory in the 42.2 km race Senior Women Category, earning a prize of P35 000 with a time of 3:33:21. Nancy Madzima came second clocking 3:34:22 whereas Oarabile Mhaladi came third clocking 3:36:45, both won P25 000 and P15 000 respectively.
The BTC Marathon attracted various dignitaries, including ministers, city mayors, district commissioners, and councilors, highlighting its significance in the community.
In his remarks, the minister of Sports and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng highlighted the importance of supporting marathons such as the Francistown BTC and many other sporting activities across the country which bring along economic benefits.
Minister Kelebeng said sport has the potential to change the lives of people in terms of talent and finances, hence the Ministry would continue to support all sports and initiatives aimed at changing the sports landscape for the better.
Francistown City Council Mayor Gaone Majere commended BTC for successfully hosting the marathon in Francistown. He noted that this year’s marathon saw significant growth in participation, contributing positively to the local economy. Mayor Majere praised all stakeholders and the business community for their efforts in making the 2025 BTC Marathon a success. He also emphasised the importance of the marathon as a way of promoting fitness and health.
In her remarks, BTC acting Chief Executive Officer Boitumelo Paya highlighted this year’s event growth in various aspects. She noted that hotels, lodges, and guest houses in Francistown were fully booked mainly due to the event that, she said, positively impacted the hospitality industry. Paya affirmed BTC’s commitment to supporting the business community and assisting Batswana in various ways to foster a spirit of giving back.
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