The Two Countries Marathon, which took place on Saturday, 20 September, in Musina, saw an excellent turnout of athletes of all fitness levels. The race made its return after last being held in 2017, and this year's 21st edition held nothing back.
The event drew more than 500 entries across all distances, with strong support on the day. Fortunately, the weather favoured the athletes, with a cool morning, a cloudy sky and a few light showers. Still, the Musina sun was not absent, making its appearance in the late morning hours.
The 42.2-kilometre marathon distance was won by Samuel Manamel, with second place going to Nkosiyazi Sibanda and third to Timothy Munzelele. In the women's race, Evidence Mudzami crossed the line first to claim gold, followed by Jone Mudau in second and Thifhelimbilu Mudau in third.
In the half-marathon men's race, covering 21.1 kilometres, Isaac Langat took first place, with Patrick Cheruiyot Koskei in second and Mthokozisi Mhanga in third. In the women's race, Annie Chirisa secured first place, with Rosaline Isiah second and Chichangana Tatenda third.
The 10-kilometre race saw just as much excitement, with Andrew Ndlovhu taking first place, Isaac Moshia second, and Bonus Jeckie third. In the women's race, Sedzani Maluta claimed first place, with Nkala Sihandneginkhosi second and Edzani Tshivahse third.
The 36-year-old Patrick Koskei, one of the international runners who travelled from Kenya to participate, finished second in the 21-kilometre race. His best times for each distance are as follows: 10 kilometres in 28:43, 21.1 kilometres in 1:03:00, and 42.2 kilometres in 2:11:00, with a future goal of 2:08:00. Koskei logs between 150 and 200 kilometres per week as part of his training programme.
Although not as prepared for this race as he would have liked, he still managed to secure second place in the half marathon. Even though he has a coach assisting him with his training, he receives no financial support for travel costs. The winnings from the races he participates in go directly into funding his next events.
Patrick stated that the event was excellent, praising both the media team from the newspaper—who accompanied the 21-kilometre athletes on a tandem cycle—and the Soutpansberg Athletics Club organisers for their professionalism and support.
"I would have liked to be more prepared for the 21-kilometre race. I think I displayed a well-rounded performance with the time I had. Overall, the event was great and I felt good during the race."