BY VUYISWA MABILA
MBABANE – The Imbube Marathon continues to attract global attention, with this year’s edition drawing a record 435 international athletes, solidifying its status as one of Africa’s most prestigious long-distance races.
The marathon, now a fixture on Eswatini’s sporting calendar, has seen a steady rise in international participation since its inception in 2015. Organisers say this year’s turnout highlights not only the event’s growing appeal but also Eswatini’s emergence as a hub for competitive and endurance sports.
Leading the list of foreign participants is South Africa, with an impressive 388 runners making the journey to Eswatini. Within this group, Mpumalanga boasts the highest number with 252 athletes, followed by Gauteng (93) and KwaZulu-Natal (34). Additional participants hail from Limpopo, North West, and Cape Town.
The marathon will also welcome competitors from other nations, including Botswana (1), the United States (2), Morocco (1), Mozambique (37), Zimbabwe (5), and the Democratic Republic of Congo (1)—a clear sign of the event’s widening international footprint.
In total, more than 6 000 runners have registered for the 2025 edition, representing a major leap in participation and enthusiasm for the annual race.
Event organiser Mlungisi Dlamini attributed the growing popularity to Eswatini’s unique terrain and the challenging nature of the route.
“The increase in attendance at the Imbube Marathon is because of the hills,” Dlamini explained. “It’s considered one of the toughest yet most rewarding races in the region.”
The marathon’s demanding course, set against Eswatini’s scenic landscapes, has become a signature attraction for both professional athletes and recreational runners seeking an extraordinary test of endurance.
Beyond its athletic appeal, the event has become an important platform for sports tourism, boosting local hospitality, transport, and business sectors. Each year, hotels and guest houses around Mbabane and surrounding areas report full bookings, while vendors and local businesses benefit from the influx of visitors.
The organisers say the Imbube Marathon continues to embody the spirit of unity, perseverance, and national pride, as thousands of supporters line the streets to cheer the participants.
“The marathon brings together people from all walks of life and from different countries,” Dlamini added. “It’s more than just a race—it’s a celebration of resilience and community.”
With its record-breaking turnout, this year’s Imbube Marathon promises to be one of the most vibrant sporting spectacles in the kingdom’s history. As Eswatini welcomes hundreds of international runners, the event not only strengthens its reputation on the global athletics stage but also reaffirms the nation’s growing commitment to hosting world-class sporting events.
(Courtesy Pic)
