Scores of runners from local and neighbouring areas had an active morning in Musina when they participated in the Musina Top Runners Marathon on Saturday, 6 September, at the Musina MAC Rugby Field.
The second annual marathon, organised by the Musina Top Runners Club, kicked off at 06:30 and attracted clubs from as far afield as Polokwane. The club's chairperson, Lufuno Musenwa, said the main aim of the marathon was to promote social cohesion, inspired by the club's participation in marathons in Polokwane, Soweto, and the Comrades Marathon.
"It was all a dream. Seeing people from other places like Polokwane ignited my desire to take it home. We managed as a team because everyone played a vital role," Musenwa said.
The race is recognised as an official marathon by Athletics South Africa and serves as a qualifier for both the Comrades and the Two Oceans marathon. This year, 1,035 runners registered, up from 425 last year. The total prize money was R52,000.
Stella Dhokotera, from the Beitbridge organising committee for runners Running Is Our Therapy (RIOT), took first place in her category. "I feel good to have won. For me, it was not about money, but about my health and networking with other runners from different clubs. I lost 38kg while preparing for this marathon. Now I am going to prepare for the marathon on 20 September," she said.
Coach and mentor Makonde Makhumisane of AWF was pleased with his runners' performance. Out of seven participants, three took first place in their respective categories: Makwarela Ramavhane (15) won the 5km race, Muano Ramalivhana (17) claimed the 10km event, and Robben Baloyi (18) finished first in his category in the 21km race and third overall.
"For me, it is a step in the right direction. My runners always aim for the best, because I tell them it is all or nothing. The prize money will motivate them to continue aiming high," Makhumisane said.