Palapye marathon attracts 900 athletes
Koketso Kgoboge | Friday May 31, 2019 20:12
Top athletes, who include defending champions Shepherd Kenatshele and Mantshapelo Badumetse, and former champions Godiraone Ntlhophe and Mema Tiango will be in the hunt for more glory. The juniors will serve another interesting battle as Bobonong Secondary School Athletics Club, which dominated the previous editions, will be tested by newcomers Mogoditshane Senior School, Shoshong and Mookane Junior Schools.
According to the race director, Moagi Rahube, the growth has exceeded his expectations. He noted that Palapye alone, draws massive interest particularly from people in the diaspora. Over 10 nationalities have registered to take part. Kenya and Ethiopia, who took part in the previous editions, are notable absentees.
“It’s interesting how people as far as Russia, Sweden, Denmark and remarkably an increased number of South Africans have taken note of this marathon. I think people are interested in events around Palapye,” he said, noting the marathon owes its growth to the village. Rahube added that the three-year-old marathon was realizing its vision of promoting the village, developing talent and supporting charitable organisations.
The four kilometre fun race has been improved after eight-year-old Sadi Senatla shocked her elderly competitors and claimed gold last year.
A price has been set for the four kilometre race and there has been an improvement of all the medals. The young Senatla, now nine years old, has been sponsored to defend her title.
“She has become an exceptional athlete, and we continue to support her. We are soliciting sponsors for her. We want her to go beyond this marathon and hopefully one day she would make us proud and represent the nation. Developing talent is our core mandate,” Rahube said.
“We don’t have sponsors for this race, but Palapye will be treated to a very exciting half marathon this weekend. A host of cooperate companies would also be battling out in the marathon.” Defending champions, Botswana Police Service will be tested by among others Botswana Open University, Botswana International University of Science and Technology, and Botswana Public Employees Union.
Athletes will compete in the 21.1km race, 10km race, 10km walk race and 4km fun run.