MANZINI – The duo of Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) athletes Mcebo Mkhaliphi and Bongiwe Mahlalela shone brightly.
This was during the Athletics Eswatini Senior National Championships held at the Mavuso Sports Centre on Saturday, where they claimed double gold medals in the men’s and women’s sprint events respectively.
Mkhaliphi successfully defended his dominance in the men’s sprints by winning both the 100m and 200m finals.
He first stormed to victory in the 100m in a time of 10.65 seconds, ahead of Thandaza Zwane (10.80) and Mlandvo Maziya (10.81).
He later returned to the track to clinch the 200m title in 21.26 seconds, with Maziya taking silver in 21.45 and Zwane settling for bronze in 21.70.
On the women’s side, Mahlalela was equally impressive as she completed a sprint double. She won the 100m final in 12.41 seconds, narrowly edging Stela Daisy of Mozambique who clocked 12.45, while Cecilia Guambe finished third in 12.74. Mahlalela later produced another commanding performance in the 200m, crossing the line in 25.69 seconds ahead of Karien Tsabedze (26.41) and Yoliswa Simelane (26.89).
Speaking after her victories, Mahlalela attributed her success to patience, determination and discipline.
“The secret is patience, determination and discipline. You must remain patient and continue attending training sessions even when things become difficult. I am still working on improving and responding better during races because my times are getting there. Diet is another secret and getting proper sleep also helps,” she said.
The athlete, who studies Marketing at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) while pursuing athletics, said balancing academics and sport has helped her remain focused on her goals.
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REPS’ Bongiwe Mahlalela edged out tough competition from Mozambican athletes to win the women’s 100m final in 12.41 seconds. (Pic: Sanele Jele)