By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – Sprinter Mcebo Mkhaliphi emerged as the standout performer among local athletes during the Athletics South Africa (ASA) Athletics Grand Prix 2.
Representing the Royal Eswatini Police Services (REPS), Mkhaliphi secured second place in the men’s 100m final with a time of 10.73 seconds, while Botswana’s Stensolo Sibanda claimed victory with a time of 10.67 seconds.
Mkhaliphi also excelled in the 200m final, finishing third with a time of 21.61 seconds. The event was won by South Africa’s Tsebo Matsoso, who clocked in at 20.62 seconds, while Botswana’s Godiraone Kevin followed closely in third with a time of 21.26 seconds.
Athletics Eswatini (AE) sent a team of national champions to participate in the ASA Grand Prix II, held in South Africa on Wednesday, as part of their preparations for the CAA-SR Relays Championships in Gaborone, Botswana, scheduled for March 29, 2025.
This event served as a crucial final test for the athletes, with many delivering impressive performances that inspire hope for podium finishes in Botswana.
During the ASA Grand Prix II, athletes from several countries competed, including host nation South Africa, Eswatini, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Nigeria, France, and Lesotho.
Other notable competitors in the event included Mlandvo Maziya, Ayanda Malaza, Lwazi Manziwokuhle Msibi, Thandaza Zwane, Mayibongwe Vilakati, Simphiwe Malambe, and Bakhona Sikhondze, among others.
