MBABANE – The popularity of road races is gaining much support, with participant numbers growing race after race this year.
This morning’s Yesuka Twe Half Marathon, formerly known as the Voice of the Church (VOC) Half Marathon, has smashed the 1 000-runner mark for the first time.
Organisers confirmed yesterday that entries have exceeded 1 000, which was a notable increase compared to last year’s edition, that attracted less than 1 000 participants. The Yesuka Twe race is not the only event to enjoy a significant rise in numbers this year.
The Yellow Epilepsy Half Marathon saw entries jump from around 700 to approximately 1 500, while the Lubombo Marathon drew close to 2 000 runners.
The starting gun is scheduled to fire at 6am at Zakhele in Manzini, opposite Inyatsi House, instead of the usual sports ground. The 21km, 10km and 5km races will all set off simultaneously. While some athletes will be chasing glory and podium places, many others will be running for fitness and fun.
In the featured half marathon, Correctional Services Athletics Club’s Thobile Ngwenyama will be aiming to defend her women’s title, while Melusi Khumalo of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) will be looking to do the same in the men’s race.
Worth noting is that prize money for the event totals close to E50 000, with increased payouts introduced for both the 21km and 10km categories.
Siphosethu Gamedze (C) and Bonisile Mngometulu (R) claimed top spots in the Yesuka Twe Half Marathon women’s 10km race of 2025. (File pic)