Miles of Hope Marathon celebrates Women’s Month in Sehlabeng
SEBONGILE MATHE
MASERU – The inaugural Miles of Hope Marathon launches in Sehlabeng sa Thuathe, Berea, on August 30, kicking off an annual event dedicated to celebrating Women’s Month while raising awareness of challenges faced by women and girls.
More than a race, the marathon aims to ignite a movement of empowerment and community support.
Organizer, Katleho Malefane, confirmed the event will take place each year on the last weekend of August. Runners can choose from four categories: a competitive 21km, a 10km race, a 5km run, and a 1.6km fun run for children. Registration fees are set at M280 (21km), M230 (10km) and M200 (5km/1.6km).
All participants receive a race kit including a T-shirt, goodie bag, bib and finisher’s medal.
Cash prizes will reward top performers in the 21km and 10km races: 21km – 1st M1 200, 2nd M800, 3rd M500, in the 10km – 1st M800, 2nd M600 and M400 for 3rd prize.
The top ten children in the 1.6km fun run will receive stationery prizes.
Beyond the races, the marathon focuses on community impact. Free weekly training sessions will be held every Saturday ahead of the event, and the “Hope Basket” initiative will collect clothing and shoes for those in need. Local running clubs strongly endorse the cause.
Rorisang Mabusela of Mountain Runners Athletics Club emphasized their commitment to “initiatives uniting people through running.”
Bafokeng Malefane from Hillbusterz Club urged men to actively support female participants, noting the marathon’s role in promoting health and inclusivity.
Founder, ‘Mathabang Molise, framed the marathon as both a celebration of Women’s Month and a platform to spotlight persistent challenges facing women and girls.
“We envision a space where women feel heard and supported,” she stated, calling for strong turnout and male allyship.
The Miles of Hope Marathon promises a day of athleticism, solidarity and social responsibility stride toward empowerment for all.
