Young runners shine at ART Youth Half-Marathon in Nkowankowa
From established athletes to emerging junior talent, the event showcased depth and promise in local and regional road running.
TZANEEN – Young runners were among the standout performers at the ART Youth Half-Marathon, staying true to the event’s focus on youth development and athletic excellence.
The annual race, held at Letaba Estates outside Nkowankowa on Saturday, June 27, attracted more than 1 000 participants.
Strong start in the men’s 21km
In the men’s 21km race, Zeinel Tsipa of Zwakala Athletics Club claimed victory in a time of 01:09:48.
He finished more than three minutes ahead of veteran runner Rufus Photo of Black Diamond Athletics Club, who recorded 01:12:47. Sainani Muila took third place in 01:16:04.
International flair in the women’s race
Kenyan athlete Rosaline Isaiah won the women’s 21km race in 01:27:46. She was followed by Vanessa Makhubele in 01:33:43 and Karin van Amstel in 01:38:56.
Youth make their mark in the 10km
In the 10km race, Isaac Moshia of Nedbank Running Club Limpopo won the men’s title in 33:12, with Leseja Maruatona of Sisonke Running Club second in 34:00. Sixteen-year-old John Sela of Masai Athletics Club completed the podium in 34:32.
The women’s 10km race was won by 16-year-old Leney Maree of Nedbank Running Club Mpumalanga in 38:43. She was followed by Matlou Phaho of Masai AC in 43:03 and 19-year-old Lebogang Mashigo in 46:30.
Junior talent shines through
In the junior 10km category, 18-year-old Allen Maswanganyi of Nkowankowa Athletics Club took first place in 41:23, ahead of 14-year-old Jayden Du Plessis of Le Club in 43:14. Maree also topped the junior girls’ category, with Mashigo finishing second in 46:43 and 14-year-old Yolindi Visagie of Le Club placing third in 47:49.
Masters athletes show experience and endurance
In the masters division, Wallvis Mhlanga of Nkowankowa Athletics Club won the men’s 60–69 10km race in 52:08. Erica Human of Tzaneen Marathon Club claimed gold in the women’s 60–69 category in 01:08:45. Lindah Ngobeni and Mapula Maake, both from Bolobedu Athletics Club, finished second and third in 01:31:56 and 01:36:56 respectively.
Growing event with strong community support
Nkowankowa Athletics Club founder and event host Conride Shikwambana said the race continues to grow each year, reflecting strong community support and a shared commitment to promoting active lifestyles.
“We are grateful for the support from all running clubs, the community and sponsors. We aim to host an even bigger event next year,” Shikwambana said.
