Lesotho marathoners achieve personal bests in Paris

NTHAKO MAJORO
MASERU – The world watched as athletes from every corner of the globe converged on Paris in France for the 2024 Olympic Games, each one bearing the hopes of their nation.
For Lesotho, those hopes rested heavily on the shoulders of marathoners Tebello Ramakongoana and Mokulubete Makatisi, as well as local taekwondo star Michelle Tau who crushed out in the early stage of the competition in the women’s -49 weight class.
Although they did not return with medals, their remarkable performances have etched their names in the annals of Lesotho’s sports history. The city of Paris, known for its iconic landmarks and rich history, set the stage for one of the most gruelling events of the Games: the Olympic marathon.
The streets, usually filled with tourists and locals, were transformed into a battleground where athletes tested the limits of human endurance. The air was thick with anticipation as the marathoners took their positions, each one knowing that the next few hours would determine their place in history.
For Ramakongoana, the race was not just about personal glory; it was about representing Lesotho on the world stage. Before the Games, his personal best was a commendable 2:08:09, a time that had already positioned him as one of the country’s top marathoners.
However, in Paris, he defied expectations and pushed his limits, crossing the finish line with a new national record and personal best of 2:07:58. This achievement not only secured him a top-10 finish, placing him seventh in the men’s marathon, but also set a new standard for future generations of Lesotho athletes.
As Ramakongoana powered through the final kilometres, the determination in his stride was palpable. The roar of the crowd, the rhythm of his breathing, and the pounding of his heart all culminated in a moment of sheer triumph as he crossed the finish line.
Although he did not stand on the podium, his performance was a victory in its own right—a testament to his dedication, resilience, and the untapped potential of Lesotho’s athletes.
Makatisi’s journey to Paris was equally inspiring. Known for her tenacity and unyielding spirit, she had already made a name for herself by representing Lesotho at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where she finished eighth in the women’s marathon.
In Paris, she faced a field of the world’s most elite marathoners, each one a formidable competitor. Despite the stiff competition and the challenging course, Makatisi improved her personal best from 2:30:54 to 2:30:20, finishing 31st.
The women’s marathon was a gruelling test of endurance and willpower. The sun bore down on the runners as they weaved through the streets of Paris, past historic landmarks and cheering spectators. Makatisi’s pace was steady and determined, her focus unwavering. Every step was a battle against fatigue, every breath a testament to her commitment and craft.
When she crossed the finish line, she may not have achieved her goal of a top-20 finish, but she had achieved something far more significant—a personal victory that would inspire countless others back home. Back in Maseru, the achievements of Ramakongoana and Makatisi were met with pride and admiration.
Athletics experts Makara Thibinyane and Mokete ‘Chaplin’ Mpomane were among those who recognised the significance of their performances. “Our athletes have put up better performances in Paris,” said Thibinyane. “If Ramakongoana’s national record and personal best time, as well as his top-10 finish, are anything to go by, I can say we are going to win a medal very soon.”
Thibinyane’s words resonated with hope, a belief that the achievements in Paris were not just individual milestones but stepping stones toward greater success on the global stage. Mpomane echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the challenges faced by Lesotho’s athletes.
“They have put up quite better performances, especially now that they have both improved their times,” he said. “It is not easy out there, especially since our athletes are no longer competing in track and field competitions.”
Both experts pointed to the need for better preparation and support for Lesotho’s athletes, particularly in the form of track and field competitions and cross-country races. These are crucial for building the foundational strength and speed necessary for success in marathon running.
Makatisi herself reflected on the race with humility and a clear-eyed understanding of the challenges she faced. “It was very tough, both the course and the competition,” she said in an interview on Wednesday.
“The Commonwealth Marathon was not tough like the Olympics Marathon. I was aiming to finish in the top 20, at least in position 15, but I could not. However, I am happy that I have managed to improve my time.”
Her words capture the essence of an athlete’s journey—not just the pursuit of medals, but the relentless drive to push beyond one’s limits, to improve with each race, and to represent one’s country with pride and honour.
The Paris Olympic Games may be over, but for Ramakongoana and Makatisi, the journey is far from finished. Their performances have sparked a renewed sense of optimism within the athletics community in Lesotho.
There is a growing belief that with continued support and development, these athletes—and others who follow in their footsteps—will not only compete on the world stage but will also ascend to the podium.
As Lesotho reflects on its participation in the Paris Olympic Games, the focus now shifts to the future. The lessons learned, the experiences gained, and the records set are all part of a larger narrative—one that speaks of perseverance, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.