Eswatini’s biggest road running event is back, bigger and more exciting than ever. The highly anticipated 8th Edition of the Imbube Marathon has officially opened registrations, setting the stage for another major sporting celebration that is expected to attract hundreds of runners from across the country, the African continent and beyond.
Scheduled for October 17, at Somhlolo National Stadium, this year’s marathon promises a vibrant atmosphere, competitive racing and another opportunity for athletes to secure qualification for two of South Africa’s most prestigious races,the Comrades Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon.
Organisers have already urged athletes and fitness enthusiasts to register early and take advantage of the current “Early Bird” registration window, which runs until July 30 with no penalty fees attached.
The marathon continues to grow in stature each year, becoming one of Eswatini’s premier sporting events while also positioning the country as an emerging destination for regional sports tourism. From elite runners chasing qualification times to families participating for fun and fitness, the Imbube Marathon has become a symbol of community, health and endurance.
This year’s event will feature four race categories, including the demanding 42-kilometre full marathon, the 21-kilometre half marathon, the 10-kilometre race and the 3.3-kilometre fun run designed specifically for elderly participants above the age of 60 and athletes living with disabilities.
According to the registration structure released by organisers, local runners will pay E365 for the 42KM race, E335 for the 21KM event and E310 for the 10KM category during the early registration period. Regional African athletes will pay between R400 and R500 depending on the chosen distance, while international participants will pay between $35 and $45.
The 3.3KM category will remain free of charge for eligible emaSwati participants, reinforcing the marathon’s commitment to inclusivity and community participation.
The full marathon will begin at 5:30am with a six-hour cut-off time, while both the 21KM and 10KM races will start at 6:00am. The 3.3KM event is expected to begin at 6:30am.
Beyond the race itself, the Imbube Marathon continues to play an important role in promoting healthy lifestyles and encouraging sports development in Eswatini. Events of this magnitude also contribute significantly to local economic activity by supporting hospitality businesses, transport operators, food vendors and tourism establishments during marathon weekend.
The event has also become increasingly attractive to international and regional runners due to its status as an official qualifier for the Comrades and Two Oceans marathons. For many athletes, the Imbube Marathon offers a valuable opportunity to test endurance levels while experiencing Eswatini’s unique scenery and hospitality.
The Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF), which sponsors the marathon, has remained instrumental in the growth of the event over the years. Through the Imbube Marathon, the organisation continues to position itself as a supporter of wellness, community engagement and national development initiatives beyond the financial sector.
This year’s theme, #PushYourLimits, reflects the spirit of determination and resilience that has become synonymous with the marathon. Organisers are encouraging both seasoned athletes and first-time runners to challenge themselves and be part of what is expected to be one of the country’s biggest sporting gatherings of the year.
Athletes can register online through Imbube Marathon Official Website or visit any ENPF branch nationwide for in-person registration assistance.
Organisers have also warned runners not to delay registration, as entries submitted after October 3 will not include a goodie bag. Additional penalty fees will also apply during the later registration phases beginning in August and October.
With anticipation already building across the running community, the countdown to the 8th Edition of the Imbube Marathon has officially begun. From elite competitors chasing qualification times to ordinary fitness lovers looking to challenge themselves, all roads will lead to Somhlolo National Stadium this October as Eswatini once again celebrates endurance, unity and sporting excellence.
