Africa-Press – Eswatini. South African athlete Siphamandla Nkosi and Zimbabwean prodigy Loveness Madziva emerged victorious in the fifth edition of the Imbube Marathon, leaving their competitors in awe of their unparalleled skill and determination.
Nkosi, who hails from the esteemed province of Kwazulu-Natal, astounded spectators with his awe-inspiring prowess as he conquered the arduous 42km race in a staggering time of 2:31:29 hours, defying the inclement weather conditions that permeated the hallowed grounds of the Somhlolo National Stadium at Lobamba. Based in the vibrant city of Harare, Madziva exhibited her unwavering determination and indomitable spirit, crossing the finish line in the female category with a commendable time of 3:00:03 hours.
This illustrious event captivated the attention of over 5 000 participants hailing from the diverse lands of South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Zimbabwe, and the host country Eswatini. Nkosi’s unwavering dominance was palpable right from the inception of the race, as he fearlessly surged ahead, leading the pack with unwavering resolve until the very end. However, his compatriots, driven by their own competitive fire, adamantly challenged his authority, denying him the opportunity to establish an overwhelming lead. The main race commenced just beyond the revered national soccer Mecca, embarking on a captivating journey that meandered through Lobamba station, forging ahead along the Lobamba-Mbabane road, gracefully passing by architectural marvels, and culminating in a crescendo of triumph at the esteemed Prince of Wales Sports Ground.
The robust and formidable Nkosi candidly revealed that his triumphant strategy was meticulously crafted through consultations with the esteemed previous champion, Bonginkhosi Mavuso, who had emerged victorious in the marathon’s 2019 edition. “I wholeheartedly dedicated myself to an arduous regime of rigorous preparation for this momentous race, diligently training five days a week and judiciously reserving weekends for much needed reprieve.
wisdom
Mavuso, in his wisdom, imparted invaluable wisdom regarding the hazardous Malagwane Hill, ensuring that I was primed and prepared to conquer its formidable slopes. With unwavering determination, I skillfully moderated my pace, deftly navigating the challenging ascent of Malagwane. Undoubtedly, it presented a formidable test of endurance, but I valiantly persisted, unyielding in my pursuit of victory,” Nkosi revealed with unwavering conviction. Furthermore, Nkosi emphasised that winning major races was not unfamiliar to him. “I recently emerged victorious in the Harry Gwala District Marathon, where I received a substantial prize of E50 000. “I was well aware that if I approached this race with the same dedication, I could walk away with the grand prize of E30 000. I am elated that my efforts paid off,” he added.
When asked about his plans for the E30 000 prize, Nkosi expressed his intention to invest it in his undisclosed small business. He also emphasised the necessity of investing in one’s future, as running alone cannot sustain a livelihood. Madziva, who secured second place in the 2019 edition, was determined to claim victory in this year’s race. The 33-year-old athlete dedicated herself to rigorous training, ensuring that her feet would propel her towards triumph. “I meticulously timed myself while running the same distance we covered during training sessions, and this preparation paid off. I was fully prepared for the arduous hills, rapid descents, and flat stretches. It required immense fitness, strength, and unwavering determination,” the Zimbabwean runner shared.
Madziva plans to use her prize money towards purchasing new sneakers, as her current pair has worn out to some extent. Additionally, she expressed her intention to share a portion of her winnings with her family. In the male category, Siyabonga Nkonde, another South African athlete, secured second place with a time of 2:33:53 hours, earning him E15 000. Flovia Sehohle, also from South Africa, claimed third place with a time of 2:36:06 hours, receiving a prize of E10 000. In the female category, Monicah Mengich from Kenya claimed the silver medal and E15 000, while Abigael Jerop, also from Kenya, walked away with E10 000.
cross
Sandile Khumalo, on the other hand, was the first to cross in the male category. The 34-year-old teacher clocked 2:37.50 hours to get sixth place in the event. It is not the last time he competes in the race as he will partake in the next Imbube Marathon event. The teacher, who is currently awaiting employment, was overjoyed with the outcome and said he had a great race. “I am so happy with the results as my time improved, I competed in another race in Siteki and got 2.46 hours,” Khumalo said. The athlete was in the company of his trainer and ex-lecturer who preferred to be referred to as Dr Nxumalo. Nxumalo said he spotted the athlete while he was still his student at Ngwane Teacher’s College. “He is one of the good runners I know; I recognised that he was talented when he was in college and opted to train him,” he said. Meanwhile, the first emaSwati to cross the finish line in 42km of Imbube Marathon event received an award of E30 000 each. Royal Eswatini Police Services (REPS) runner Samkelisiwe Thwala secured position seven in the event and clocked 3:27.12 hours. The long distance participant was impressed with her performance and said she had a good run despite the weather. “The race was not that tough. Despite the rainy weather I had a good run,” Thwala said.
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