Ga-Maila marathon organisers introduce 42km race

Olefile Serokolo | Friday November 17, 2017 16:17

The marathon is scheduled to take place on Sunday, with a lot of athletes showing interest in the newly established category.

 Marathon coordinator, Andrew Mmereki said the decision to introduce the race was motivated by the feedback they got from the participants after last year’s event. The marathon started with 5km and 10km in 2015 with the introduction of 21km last year and eventually introducing the 42km race this year. He, however, said the 42km race will not be available in the female category as they have noticed a snail’s pace registration by female athletes hence the reason not to introduce it.

Mmereki did not rule out the possibility of introducing the race in future. He said they have changed routes, with this year’s race starting at Ledubeng Village Park. He said the organising committee is recruiting and inducting volunteers who are expected to help during the marathon. 

He said registration is still on, although the day is closer. He said the registration can be done online or by visiting the DML Wellness Centre in Kanye adding that the registration for 5km is P50, P100 for 10km, P120 and P150 for 21km and 42km respectively. 

He noted  that they have not yet registered any international athletes, but was hopeful that they would come forward before the deadline. Mmereki said the winner in the 10km race will walk away with P2,000 in both the male and female sections while second and third positions will walk away with P1,500 and P1,000 respectively.

In the 21km category, winners will earn P2,750 while positions two and three will get P2,500 and P2,000 respectively. In the 42km race, the winner takes home P5,000, while second and third will pocket P3,500 and P2,500 respectively. The marathon coordinator said they have partnered with Kanye Summer Games and the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development.  “Ga-Maila Marathon is meant to revive the old marathon which used to be run annually in Kanye.

This event was a social event where Bagangwaketse would showcase their running talent and stamina. The event also motivated the spirit of competition and togetherness amongst the regiment of Bangwaketse and the most exciting part was when the young stars had to show their elder brothers what they are capable of,” he said.