By Matṧeliso Phulane
Local insurance company, Minet Lesotho has launched its first ever marathon called ‘Minet Independence Marathon’ which is set to take place on October 5, 2024 at Thaba-Bosiu.
Minet Lesotho is a dynamic and innovative insurance broking company that offers a range of relevant risk services to clients.
As a result, the marathon is aligned with Minet Foundation which has three pillars, namely education, health and building sustainable community.
Launched under the theme ‘Selling Healthy Lifestyles’, the marathon will be an annual event. It promises to deliver an exhilarating blend of athleticism, camaraderie and celebration.
Minet said people of all ages, seasoned runners aiming for a personal best or first-time participants embarking on transformative journey, are welcome.
Speaking at the launch yesterday, Minet’s chief financial officer/chief operations officer, Lehlomela Mokhati said, “We are thrilled to launch the Minet Independent Marathon, which is set to be an annual event. This year’s event is more special as we will also be celebrating 200 years since the formation of the Basotho Nation by King Moshoeshoe I.
“Therefore, we are inviting runners from near and far to join us for this historic event. The marathon attests to our commitment to Minet Lesotho’s three pillars of our CSR initiatives being: education, health and building sustainable communities
“Why independence marathon? It is called Minet Independence Marathon because it is going to be held during the independence holiday, which also aligns with the bicentennial of the Basotho nation,” Mokhati said.
He noted that Minet chose to hold the marathon in Thaba-Bosiu because it is one of country’s historical places. Apart from that, it is a good place for runners considering its terrain which does not have a lot of hills.
Again, they have decided to take the event outside of Maseru to Thaba Bosiu in line with the pillar of sustainable community, which is giving back to the people there through various job opportunities such as paid parking marshals and boosting local businesses.
“The focus of the marathon is about health as a whole. Therefore, there will be services such as blood donation and testing for different chronical diseases.
“There will also be a concert for mind refreshing whereby local artists will be invited to showcase their talents as a way of promoting music.
“People who would like to participate can register for the 42km, 21km and 10km marathons, as well as the 5km fun run,” Mokhati indicated.
The route will start from Thaba Bosiu near LECSA Church and proceed to Ha Makhalanyane, Masianokeng, Ha Motṧoeneng and Ha Leqele. It will take the same route back to ‘Melesi Lodge which is the finish line.
Registration and prizes to be won will be announced by June 30.
