BDF AC Half Marathon grows in leaps, bounds
Calistus Kolantsho | Tuesday September 1, 2026 10:04
The runners were accompanied by roar of cheers, rumbling footsteps, and the iconic sweeping views of Sir Seretse Khama Barracks (SSKB), before dropping down into the electric energy of Mogoditshane during the sixth edition of BDF Athletics Club Half Marathon. Major Alfred Phinias from the Directorate of Protocol and Public Affairs office serving as the Local Organising Committee (LOC) chairperson, told Sport Monitor that the initiative, which was first introduced in 2018, has grown tremendously over the years.
“From its humble beginnings with approximately 300 runners, the event has expanded to attract over 3, 000 participants, demonstrating its growing popularity and impact,” he said.
“This year marked a significant milestone, as registration surpassed 3, 000 participants for the first time. The growth of the half marathon has also been reflected in the increasing number of sponsors and partners, whose continued support has contributed significantly to the success and development of the event.”
Phinias added that the 2026 edition further strengthened the marathon’s regional appeal, attracting participants from sister Defence Forces, including the Zambia Army, Lesotho Defence Force, Namibia Defence Force and Zimbabwe Defence Force.
He said there were also runners from Mafikeng Runners Club, adding to the diversity and regional representation of participants.
“The continued growth of the BDF AC Mogoditshane Half Marathon is a testament to the commitment of the organizers, sponsors, partners, athletes and the wider community. “The event has evolved into an important sporting platform that promotes health, fitness, camaraderie, and regional cooperation,” Phinias said.
Speaking to Sport Monitor, the 21km men’s race winner, Amos Kemboi from Kenya who clocked 1:05:53 said the event was his second race in Botswana after the Orange Phikwe Marathon.
He also said a half marathon was an opportunity for him to run faster. Kemboi added that the half marathon course was perfect hence being to break away at 10km.
The women’s 21km winner, Corporal Alina Armas from Namibia Defence Force (NDF) dominated the race, crossing the finish line setting a new Personal Best (PB) of 1:14:44.
Armas said it was her fourth time competing in Botswana after winning Diacore Marathon four times. Her win is a result of discipline and training hard, she said.
The men’s 10km race was claimed by Peter Chigiya from Botswana, clocking 30:07, followed by Tladi Modupi from South Africa in a time of 30:24 and Karabo Bosele of BDF athletics club finished in position three in 30: 24.
Caroline Mhandu of Botswana is the women’s 10km race champion clocking 35:40 with Gaone Bathoen of BDF athletics club finishing second in 36:04 with Kefilwe Gaileitsiwe claiming the third spot in 36:19.
The women’s 21km second position went to Mosadikwena Gotswakgosi of BDF athletics club with a time of 1:16:29 and Lance Corporal Aimwata of NDF concluded the podium finishers in 1:20:08.
Lopang Oontse of Mmadinare athletics club finished second in the men’s 21km clocking 1:06:30 and the third position went to Sergent Hangula of NDF registering a time of 1:06:34.