01 May 2017

Over 200 athletes descended at Majestic Five Hotel to participate in the Palapye Half Marathon.

The marathon which was approved by Botswana Athletics Association was aimed at unearthing talent and improving the quality of life amongst communities in the Central region by advocating for fitness, healthy living and alcohol abuse awareness.

The race coordinator Moagi Rahube said in an interview that the race was a success because it was the first of its kind in the central region.

The athletes participated in three categories, 21.1km, 10km and the four kilometres fun race, of which Godiraone Ntlhompe and Meme Tiango both from SSKB club, became victorious in the 21.1km race in the male and female categories respectively.

Ntlhomphe clocked 68 minutes whilst Tiango clocked 86 minutes, failing to break the international record of 58 minutes. The two walked away with medals and P4 000.

Rahube urged athletes to enhance their training so that next year they break the record, adding that Palapye marathon will be an annual race.

He also expressed his happiness for young people who took part in the race under the Junior category, saying that this marathon will help them build their sports career.

The event was complemented by family fun day activities such as aerobics and a music festival which was held at Nkau farm.

Rahube further urged companies in Palapye to sponsor events such as this one, adding that Palapye marathon will brand Palapye in a way that will help bring business opportunities in the area.

He decried lack of sponsorship as one of the challenges he and other organisers incurred.

He also added that the race suffered shortage of officials to control traffic, hence the race started a bit late.

He also decried lack of professional timing officials, adding “we will try to improve on this in the next coming marathon.”

He also commended international athletes who took part in the race who came from countries such as Germany, Italy, USA, South Africa, UK and Ethiopia.

The event was sponsored by the Palapye based Central Sports Centre.

The 10km race was won by Mphoyamodimo Kekganetswe and Lame Nare in the male and female categories respectively. Both of them walked away with P2000 each. ENDS