Phiri, Manda win joggers marathon
The second edition of Joggers on the Move Marathon (JOM) Challenge held on Sunday in Lilongwe saw Yotamu Phiri winning gold in the men’s category in 3:42:22 hours (hrs).
He was followed by Dingani Soko who crossed the 42.139 kilometre-finishing line in 3:42.2 hrs to claim silver while John Munthali clocked 3:56.06 to settle for bronze.
In the women’s event, Kenosi Manda won in 4:13:8 hrs, Maya Kachenga was second (4:15:13 hrs) while Jayne Nyirenda’s time of 4:34:16 hrs earned her the third position.
Winners received gold, second-placed got silver and bronze for third place in a race which drew 40 runners.
The women’s bronze medallist Nyirenda, who was also the organising committee coordinator, said they were impressed with the event.
She said: “It was a great success despite Covid-19 restrictions as we followed all the guidelines. It was encouraging to have a good number of participants.
“The marathon brings people from all walks of life together. It’s not only a sporting event, but we also raise money for charity and keep runners physically and mentally fit. Unfortunately, because of Covid-19 restrictions we did not raise funds this time.”
On his part, Zodiak Broadcasting Station journalist Joab Frank Chakhaza, who was among the participants, said marathons make participants physically and mentally fit.
He said: “Running in a marathon is not just a physical challenge. It is also a mental challenge. It tests your endurance to the limit. You train long and hard and when you eventually achieve it, it makes you feel strong and boosts your self-confidence to achieve bigger things in life.”
