The global race, unique in its format and purpose, saw over 400 participants across Botswana competing in the 9km and 21km half marathon at Royal Aria Stadium in Tlokweng on May 4. The Wings for Life World Run is a charity marathon that aims at contributing to the cause of finding a cure for spinal cord injuries. Botswana made her mark in the global course as the country contributed to a record-breaking global total of over 310, 719 registered participants across 170 countries, where every penny raised goes directly to research aimed at curing spinal cord injuries. Under perfect running temperatures of clear skies, participants walked and in a bid to help funding cutting-edge spinal cord research through every step they took.
For others it was perfect opportunity to improve their running times at the event. The men’s 21.6km race was won by Mucia Lucas Tjikuto while the women’s 9.07km race was won by Botho Morris. Botswana’s debut not only marked a significant moment in the country’s fitness and social impact calendar but also aligned it with a worldwide wave of hope, resilience, and scientific progress, the organisers said. South African Wings for Life ambassador and motorcycle accident survivor, Sandile Mkhize, shared a heartfelt message of encouragement to participants in the Botswana’s debut in the global race. “To see Botswana join this incredible global cause is truly inspiring. Every step you ran yesterday brings us all closer to a cure,” said Mkhize.
