Lesotho to host another thrilling marathon

…as the Mountain Marathon 21 debuts in October

NTHAKO MAJORO

MASERU – Only three months after the Minet Independence Marathon was announced, Lesotho is going to hold another thrilling marathon. Dubbed the Mountain Marathon 21, this new race is scheduled to take place on October 26, following the Minet Marathon on October 5. The events promise to bring together elite runners and enthusiasts from around the world.

The Mountain Marathon 21, a half marathon, is making its debut with a generous sponsorship of M1.2 million from MS Construction.

Announcing the event on Wednesday this week, Mosiuoa Nthakong, one of the key organisers, emphasised the race’s potential to uncover local talent and its significance on the international stage.

“This is going to be a 21.1-kilometre race, starting from Ha Noosi and concluding at Melele Ground in Qacha’s Nek,” Nthakong revealed at a press briefing in Maseru.

“We are excited to see athletes from all corners of the globe participate in what we aim to make a landmark event for Lesotho.” The Federation of Athletics Lesotho (FAL) has officially listed the race at an international level.

FAL President Tšeliso Pheta confirmed that the Mountain Marathon 21 has been placed in category F, the entry-level ranking for international athletics. However, the race’s status will elevate to category D as it doubles as a national championship.

“While category F is the starting point, we are confident that with consistent effort, we can elevate this race to higher rankings within the next three to four years,” he said.

 Pheta also noted the race’s international recognition means competitors can earn valuable points towards qualifying for some of the world’s most prestigious races.

In addition to the main event, the marathon will feature a 5-kilometre fun run open to the public and a 25-kilometre cycling race.

The stakes are high, with significant cash prizes on offer. The winners of the 21.1-kilometre race in both the men’s and women’s categories will each pocket M150 000, while the runners-up will take home M100 000. Third, fourth, and fifth place finishers will receive M60 000, M30 000, and M20 000, respectively.

For the 5-kilometre and 25-kilometre cycling races, winners in both men’s and women’s categories will earn M3 000, with runners-up receiving M2 500. Third, fourth, and fifth-placed competitors will take home M2 000, M1 500, and M1 000, respectively.

With the excitement building, all eyes are on October as the Mountain Kingdom prepares to host these competitive and community-focused events.