LOBAMBA – Age proved no barrier for a 12-year-old girl from Mambane Primary School, who stunned spectators by winning E5,000 in the 10 km race at the 2025 Imbube Marathon, running alongside adults for the very first time.
Seluleko Ndzinisa, a Grade 7 pupil who had never participated in the Imbube Marathon before, said she was overjoyed with her victory and the prize money.
“I’m very happy I won so much money. I can now buy anything I want and see what it feels like to eat my own money,” she said proudly.
“I faced no challenges; everything was OK. It was my first time participating, and my teacher motivated me to come.”
Her mother, who could not hide her excitement, said she was extremely proud of her daughter’s determination and encouraged other parents to support their children’s passions.
“I’m very happy and proud of her,” she said. “As a parent, I would like to urge other parents to support their kids when doing something they love and never choose for them, because you might choose something they don’t like.”
The young runner’s inspiring win served as a reminder that the Imbube Marathon is not just about competition but about discovering hidden talent and nurturing the next generation of athletes in Eswatini.
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