LOBAMBA – A South African male and a Kenyan female masters claimed first spots in the 2025 Imbube Marathon long distances on Saturday at Somhlolo National Stadium, in Eswatini.
Charles Jiyane (52) took first place in the 42.2 km track, defeating the defending champion Mancoba Nhlabatsi, who produced a consistent strong performance to be declared in second place in two hours and 30 minutes, while Kenya’s Rosina Kiboino (42) claimed the 32 km female title.
Both are classified as master – an athlete who competes in the age category of 40 – of 7th Imbube Marathon edition which saw at least 7,000 athletes and fitness enthusiasts gather at the Somhlolo National Stadium.
Jiyane, who has six Comrades Marathon gold medals, overtook Nhlabatsi just metres away from the finish line. Jiyane is the Imbube Marathon’s oldest winner.
Speaking to journalists briefly after the race, Jiyane said he came to the marathon well prepared to win. Jiyane said he saw Nhlabatsi relax towards the finish line, bypassing him to claim the first spot.
In this category, runners took the challenging Malagwane up and down the hill to Mbabane and back to the stadium.
Speaking to Eswatini TV, Jiyane said, “When we came through the stadium gate, I overtook him when we were both looking at the finishing line.”
Asked to comment on Nhlabatsi’s performance, he said he relaxed prior to beating the finish line.
“I saw him looking at his back a lot, walking. I managed to cross first to the finish line.”
The event featured multiple race categories to accommodate elite competitors, recreational runners and families alike. 42.2 KM, 32 KM, 21 KM, 10 KM, and 3.3 KM fun run drawing participants from across the country and beyond.
The shorter distances, notably the 10 km and the community 3.3 km, attracted large numbers of local runners and families, highlighting the event’s broad community appeal.
The Imbube Marathon once again proved a test of endurance and spirit. Competitors ranged from seasoned elites to first-time racers and included inspiring stories such as 84-year-old Sipho Dlamini, who completed the 32 km for the third time.
Corporate teams, including Zheng Yong SWZ Pty, were also on show, their runners beaming with pride at the finish line as the event proved to be the flagship road race that continues to inspire national pride and healthy living.
Local politicians joined the post-race aerobics session, promoting fitness and active living beyond the marathon. The atmosphere reached its peak when His Majesty King Mswati III’s representative, Her Royal Highness Princess Tiyandza, graced the event, drawing cheers from the crowd as she joined participants in the lively aerobics session.
Beyond medals and placings, the marathon reinforced its role as a celebration of health, togetherness, and resilience.
By the time the final participants crossed the finish line, Somhlolo National Stadium hummed with the joy of achievement and a renewed commitment to fitness across generations.
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