By Sibusiso Masilela
His Majesty King Mswati III believes that a robust sports culture helps to promote a healthy lifestyle for the nation.
The King said this during the 2024 Imbube Marathon where he was represented by Prince Bandzile on Sunday at Somhlolo National Stadium.
“We must continue to invest in the growth and development of sports. A robust Sports culture is critical for our nation’s development as it promotes healthy living, Fosters unity, and inspires our youth to reach for greatness,” the King said,
The King also stated that the race unites the nation from various sectors.
“The power of unity, of uplifting those who may Stumble and encouraging those who may falter is If we can foster this spirit and support one Another on our paths to personal and national we will transform our nation and leave a mark on the world.
This is one of the national events that intentionally includes every Liswati, as it accommodates the young, the elderly and People living with disabilities,” the King said.
The King then hailed the immense growth of the six-year-old race.
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“Our hearts are beaming with pride and joy as we Witness the remarkable growth of the marathon, From a humble event to a powerful catalyst for Our economic growth and wellness.
We commend the drastic increase of participants to 6,000 compared to the 5,000 from last year’s edition,” the King said.
His Majesty also applauded the runners for attending the event. Some international runners came from Australia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Mozambique and Kenya.
The King further thanked World Athletics for making the race an international event since it also serves as a qualifier for the Comrades Marathon.
“We are also pleased to recognise the marathon’s well-deserved international accreditation, now a certified race by World Athletics and A qualifying event for the prestigious Comrades Marathon and other global races.
This global recognition demonstrates our nation’s persistent quest for excellence in all our undertakings,” the King said.
The King further noted that the race contributes to economic growth in the country through tourism. The King also thanked the Eswatini National Provident Fund and sponsors for making the race successful.
“We also wish to acknowledge all other sponsors who have partnered with the Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF) to make this event the success that it has been.
As we have seen the benefits of the marathon are far-reaching, we hope that the sponsorships Will continue to increase in the coming years,” the King said.
The sponsors included Standard Bank, Old Mutual and Ubombo Sugar who contributed over E500 000 towards the prestigious marathon.
The King also congratulated the winners of the 2024 edition.
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The champion for this year’s race was Mancoba Nhlabatsi from the Royal Eswatini Police Service Athletics Club. Nhlabatsi went home E70 000 richer by taking home the E35 000 first prize money and the E35 000 for the best Liswati.
REPS Athletics Club female athlete Samkeliswe Tfwala was the best Liswati in the 42km and received E35 000 for her achievement.
“We celebrate the winners who have Shown more hunger and ambition to emerge. Our celebration extends beyond the podium to every participant in this marathon.
You have all demonstrated extraordinary courage and determination to cross the finish line and sweat it to the end.
This display of determination and unity reflects our nation’s shared values and commitment to excellence, which are key pillars in building a bright and prosperous future for all,” the King concluded.