Masango claims third consecutive win
Derrick Masango claimed victory in the Emalahleni City Marathon for the third consecutive year.
The streets of eMalahleni were abuzz with activity as hundreds of runners gathered for the Emalahleni City Marathon.
The crowds held their breath as the runners came in after the 42.2km race.
For a third time, Derrick Masango of Harambe 2040 Athletic Club did not disappoint.
He recorded a time of 02:30:35 to secure the title. Masango previously won the race in 2024 with a time of 02:32:36 and took honours in 2025 with an improved time of 02:29:35.
“It was a good run. I was trailing behind Promise Msitshana, but when he started getting cramps I overtook him at 39km,” Masango said.
Msitshana, of Nedbank Running Club, finished second in 02:32:31 before collapsing at the finish line due to leg cramps.
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Rosaline Isaiah was the first woman across the 42.2km finish line, recording a time of 03:18:20.
Ayanda Ncqobo of Maxed Elite KZN took first place in the men’s 21km race with a time of 01:08:48.
“I am still recovering from last week’s marathon. I know I could have done better, but overall I am happy with the win,” a tired Ncqobo said.
Cindy Simelane of Harambe 2040 Athletic Club won the women’s 21km category in 01:31:54.
In the 10km event, Nkangala Athletics Academy runner Guguletho Thanjekwayo won the men’s race in 00:32:40.
The streets of eMalahleni were abuzz with activity as hundreds of runners gathered for the Emalahleni City Marathon. For a third time, Derrick Masango of Harambe 2040 Athletic Club did not disappoint. #derrickmasango @ZitaGoldswain pic.twitter.com/xGGLRxQjZr
— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) September 21, 2026
Junior runner Tinay Smith of Coaldust Road Runners won the women’s 10km category, clocking 00:42:11.
Smith, who is recovering from the flu, said she was pleased with her time.
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Younger runners dominated the 4.9km race with Frans van der Heever (14) of HTS crossing the finish line in 00:20:53.
Wiseman Makunyane was the first walker across the finish line.
See photos here:
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