�Marathon runners need exposure�

Chakalisa Dube | Wednesday February 18, 2015 14:44

The 43-year-old Tsatsa, who has been a regular feature in local marathons, made the remarks to Mmegi Sport after her triumph at the maiden beMOBILE marathon in Francistown on Sunday.

“There is one major thing that concerns me with Botswana marathoners. They are blessed with the ability, but they do not like participating in events outside the country.

“In order for them to improve they have to compete with athletes from other countries. Sharing experiences with other experienced athletes outside Botswana can also help them improve.

“The Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) and the private sector also have to support runners to take part in events outside the country with logistics and training. This is how local marathoners can improve,” she said. She added that it is vital for athletes in the SADC region to form a forum in which they can constantly share ideas on how they can improve. “Marathon runners from countries such as Kenya and surrounding countries have a platform in which they regularly meet.  “Through these platforms they deliberate on their challenges and how to address them. This is what we need in the SADC region.”

Tsatsa said it is important for the BAA to train more marathon coaches.

Meanwhile, Tsatsa said that she would continue to be a regular feature in Botswana races.  “I am not planning to retire soon. I will continue coming to Botswana in the coming years. I do not only come here to compete ,but to also pass my experience to the youngsters and inspire them,” she said. 

Apart from her weekend victory, Tsatsa has won several marathons in Botswana including the Bosele marathon in 2012.

She came second at the highly rated Old Mutual Two Oceans marathon held in South Africa in 2013.