IMBUBE MARATHON DRAWS THOUSANDS AS ESWATINI TARGETS 10 000 RUNNERS

By: Nonophile Khumalo

NHLANGANO — The Imbube Marathon is gathering strong momentum ahead of its eighth edition, with 8 136 runners from Eswatini and abroad already registered for the 17 October 2026 race at Somhlolo National Stadium.

Organisers are now working towards the 10 000 participant milestone, positioning the event as one of Eswatini’s major sporting occasions while strengthening its potential to attract visitors and promote the country through sport and tourism.

The momentum surrounding the marathon was highlighted during the Catsatsa! Sikuwe Roadshow Activation in Nhlangano, where Lidlelantfongeni Chief Executive Officer Futhi Tembe spoke about the significance of Imbube and its connection with the nation.

“Imbube is for the nation, just as Lidlelantfongeni is for emaSwati,” Tembe said.

Her remarks underscored the marathon’s broader role beyond the sporting field, as the event continues to bring together athletes, communities, businesses and visitors from different parts of Eswatini and beyond.

The eighth edition will feature four race categories, namely the 42.2km full marathon, 21.1km half marathon, 10km race and 3.3km fun run, catering for participants with different levels of running experience.

The marathon also carries significance for athletes pursuing major regional running opportunities, with the event recognised as a qualifier for the Two Oceans Marathon. Its association with the Comrades Marathon further adds to its appeal among long distance runners.

As preparations intensify, organisers have also reminded participants about the official cut off times and the conditions attached to receiving a race medal.

According to the latest race information, runners in the 42km marathon will have six hours to complete the course, while the 21km category has a three hour cut off and the 10km race has a two hour cut off.

The 3.3km fun run has a one hour cut off for emaSwati aged 60 and above and members of the disability community.

Organisers have stressed that medals are not guaranteed after the cut off time, with only runners who complete their respective races within the official cut off periods set to receive a medal.

Beyond competition, the Imbube Marathon continues to create opportunities for athletes, businesses and communities while bringing visitors into the country. The participation of runners from outside Eswatini also provides an opportunity to showcase the Kingdom’s tourism attractions, culture and hospitality.

The Nhlangano activation further brought the marathon closer to communities as organisers continue their roadshow activities to build awareness, encourage registrations and strengthen participation ahead of race day.

Tembe said the marathon had grown beyond being a road race, bringing together sport, wellness and tourism while creating opportunities for local athletes.

With more than 8 000 runners already registered and organisers targeting 10 000 participants, attention now turns to 17 October as Eswatini prepares to welcome thousands of athletes to Somhlolo National Stadium for another edition of the Imbube Marathon.