‘Mathakane bags Bocheletsane double

SEBONGILE MATHE

MASERU – Prominent road-runner ‘Mathakane Letsie claimed victory in the Bocheletsane Half-marathon in the women’s division followed by ‘Mamosebi Khojoane – her second win in a row at this event. The Bocheletsane Half Marathon, held in Mantšonyane, Thaba-Tseka, on March 16, showcased the talent of Lesotho’s local runners, providing a platform for athletes to compete and demonstrate their strength and endurance.

The event featured three races the 21.1km, 10km, and a 5km race.

In the men’s category Jobo Khotoane took first place with Khoarahlana Seutloali coming in in second place. The 10km race saw Kamohelo Mofolo win the men’s race, followed by Thabang Sekonyela.

Finally, in the 5km race, Montšeng Morongoenyane secured first place for the women, with Kolitsoe Monaheng finishing second.

Federation of Athletes Lesotho Vice President Sefali Sefali reported a total of 136 runners, expressing disappointment at the lower-than expected turnout compared to the previous races.

He attributed this to the late preparation for the event. Sefali also highlighted challenges encountered during the race, including cold, rainy weather and a minor injury to one athlete, who nonetheless completed the race.

He noted that, since the marathon’s inception, it had not attracted any international athletes.

However, he expressed positivity that extending the race to a full 42km marathon could draw participants from other countries.

Despite the lower turnout, Sefali highlighted the presence of promising young athletes, particularly those in the elite category, using the marathon as training to build speed for the Two Oceans race.

While acknowledging that this year’s marathon did not match the success of previous events, Sefali expressed satisfaction with the evident talent displayed and the ongoing improvement within the sport.

He encouraged parents to involve their children in marathons as a positive alternative to street activities. Finally, he thanked the Sam Matekane Foundation for their ongoing sponsorship, urging the other companies to contribute to the sports growth.

The 21.1km women’s category winner, Letsie, expressed delight at securing her second consecutive victory in the marathon. She emphasized that this race serves as a valuable preparation for upcoming competitions, particularly the challenging Two Oceans race in April.

Attributing her win to hard training, she acknowledged the difficult conditions, high altitude, cold, and rain, but ultimately overcame them.

Letsie suggested exploring alternative locations for future marathons due to the challenging terrain, although she celebrated her win as evidence of her potential to compete in even longer distances.