Barberton Mines runner Msawenkosi Buthelezi recorded a time of 01:07:31 to claim victory in the 2026 Men’s Challenge road race at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, July 25.
Hosted by Ngodwana Marathon Club, the event featured a half-marathon and a 4.9km fun run.
Samuel Mathabatha of Bella’s Athletics Club finished second overall in 01:11:39, while Mthokozisi Madingane took third in 01:13:55 to win the junior category.

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Sizwe Mwale of Ngodwana Marathon Club took second place in the junior category in 01:14:07, with Justin Mashigo of Nedbank Running Club finishing third in 01:16:26.

Turnout doubles
Lindiwe Dephney Masiye, the founder of Men’s Challenge and secretary of Ngodwana Marathon Club, said more than 200 runners took part.
She said that, compared with the first race in 2024, which had about 55 participants, this was a significant improvement.

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The purpose of the race is to promote a healthy lifestyle and support the well-being and value of men and the boy child in the community.

Category results:

40+
1st: Ntuthuko Maseko
2nd: Tumelo Gwete
3rd: Charl Strydom
50+
1st: Moris Maiga
2nd: Alphius Motloung
3rd: Thulane Mkhabela
60+
1st: Nehemia Mtsweni
2nd: Hannes van Wyk
3rd: Johannes Nyalunga
70+
1st: Enos Ndimande.