By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – For Make Maphalala, age is just a number.
At 63 years old, she believes she has what it takes to win the 10km race in the Tinkhundla Cross Country Talent Search currently taking place in the country.
Make Maphalala competed under Mtfongwaneni Inkhundla on Saturday. The Tinkhundla Cross-Country Talent Search is part of the E2 million Tinkhundla National Talent Search Competition launched by the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs.
Athletics Eswatini (AE), which is hosting the cross-country races across the four regions of Hhohho, Manzini, Lubombo, and Shiselweni, stated that Make Maphalala’s presence highlights how special the talent search is and that it is open to everyone.
The Tinkhundla Centres from each region are divided into zones that compete in three categories: 3km for ages 10-15, 6km for ages 15-20, and 10km for the open category.
The cross-country race took place in three zones under the Manzini region: Mkhiweni/Luve, Mtfongwaneni, and Ngwempisi.
“We witnessed something truly special at the Tinkhundla Talent Search in Mtfongwaneni Inkhundla. Make Maphalala, a 63-year-old powerhouse, took on the 10km race with heart and determination. Her participation shows us all that age is just a number and that passion for athletics knows no limits,” said a statement from AE.
AE also expressed their deepest gratitude to everyone who participated in and supported the Tinkhundla Talent Search cross-country competitions.
“To the athletes, your spirit and perseverance are truly inspiring. To the Tindvuna Tetikhundla and Bucopho, your leadership and commitment played a vital role in ensuring everything ran smoothly. A special thanks to our National Technical Officials (NTOs) for your expertise and support, which were invaluable in maintaining the high standards of our competition.
Together, you all contributed to a fantastic event that showcased the incredible talent within our communities. We look forward to more thrilling competitions in the next region (Shiselweni),” the statement concluded.
