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Nkululeko Mgubhelo of the Zakhele Athletics Club in Bizana ‘ran’ away with R10 000, after winning the 21.1km men’s race in the Mfundo Arnold Lushaba Half Marathon last Sunday.
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Malineo Mahloko won the women’s 21.1km and also took home R10 000.
The marathon was hosted by Umzumbe Municipality.
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The event, which also comprised 5km and 10km races, started and finished at Esibanini Sports Ground.
Mgubhelo said he started running in 2008 while he was in school.
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“I saw an opportunity and my teachers also encouraged me to run.”
He said there are many opportunities in sport and that he meets many people who support and encourage him.
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The mayor of Umzumbe, Bongani Nyuswa, said 135 athletes took part and hoped that next year’s marathon is even more well supported.
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Nyuswa said he was excited at the turnout and believed that the marathon was a success.
“It was exciting to see people from other clubs joining in, especially as Umzumbe is a rural area.”
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The mayor discouraged young people from using drugs and alcohol, and urged them to rather get involved in sport, like running.
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