Africa-Press – Eswatini. It was a sensational performance by long distance runner Melusi Khumalo as he finished fifth in the Al-Basra International Half Marathon in Iraq and won E50 000.
The Umbutfo Eswatini Defense Force (UEDF) Athletics Club finished on 1:08:11 hours to hoist the country’s flag high. The 21.1km race was held in Iraq on Friday and he represented the country with Correctional Services Athletics Club athlete Thobile Ngwenyama who finished 14th in the women’s category.
Athletics Eswatini (AE) President Zakhele Dlamini who had accompanied the athletes shared his excitement and pride over the team’s performance, extending his congratulations to both athletes for raising the Eswatini flag high on the global stage.
“We are beyond thrilled to announce that Melusi Khumalo delivered an outstanding performance, finishing 5th in the men’s 21km race at the prestigious Al-Basra International Half Marathon — and walked away with a cash prize of E50 000. This achievement is not only a personal victory but a proud moment for the entire nation. It’s also a powerful boost to our vision of growing long-distance running in Eswatini.
Thobile Ngwenyama also gave a valiant effort, finishing 14th in a highly competitive women’s field. We salute her determination and courage on the international stage,” reads a statement from AE.
Khumalo raised the country’s flag same day the country as celebrating the National Flag Day as it was combined with His Majesty King Mswati III 57th Birthday at King Sobhuza II memorial Stadium, Nhlangano.
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