Athletes from different towns and cities, as well as participants from Lesotho and Eswatini, braved the cold on Saturday morning to take part in the second edition of the Prof. Otty Nxumalo Marathon, hosted by Inkamana Athletics Club.

The marathon was held in AbaQulusi Local Municipality, where the legendary Professor Otty Nxumalo comes from. He was also present during the course of the event.

Four race distances on offer

The four-in-one race featured 42.2km, 21.1km, 10km and 5km distances. The 42.2km race is an official qualifier for both the 2027 Two Oceans and Comrades marathons.

First-time participants were eager to experience the race, while those returning for the second year aimed to improve on their times from last year. Participants gathered at AbaQulusi Plaza before the 42.2km and 21.1km races got underway, followed shortly afterwards by the 10km and 5km races.

Masongo defends his marathon title

Derrick Masongo once again claimed first place in the men’s 42.2km race, repeating his victory from the 2025 event. In the women’s 42.2km race, Puleng Khumalo from Pretoria took first place.

Masongo said this year’s race was challenging, as the route was very different from last year, while Khumalo described the race as a good experience.

Ngcobo and Biyela win half-marathon races

In the men’s 21.1km race, Ayanda Ngcobo claimed first place, followed by Sibusiso Kubheka in second and Lungelo Khumalo in third.

In the women’s 21.1km race, Silindile Biyela finished in first place, followed by Zama Khumalo in second. Nokuthula Ntshangase claimed third place.

Organisers thank supporters

The organisers thanked all the sponsors and participants who travelled from near and far to support the event and help make the second edition of the marathon a success. (Images sourced)

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