By Chisomo Phiri

In an electrifying display of speed and endurance, South Africa-based runner Mphatso Nadolo and Mzuzu-based female athlete Nalicy Chirwa on Saturday emerged victorious in the 6th edition of the Blantyre 42.195 km race, held at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre.

Nadolo blazed through the 42.195 km marathon in an impressive time of 2:22:05, securing first place.

He was closely followed by Ndacha Mchelenje of the Malawi Defence Force, who finished in 2:24:20, while Glevasio Mpani of CIVO Sporting Club took third place with a time of 2:26:33.

In the women’s race, Nalicy Chirwa successfully defended her title, crossing the finish line in 2:57:02. Veteran runner Tereza Master claimed second place with a time of 3:02:59, and Doris Fisher rounded off the podium, finishing in 3:04:23.

The excitement continued in the men’s 10 km race, where Chikondi Mwanyali of CIVO Sporting Club emerged as the champion, clocking in at 29:57:62. His teammate, Prince Kalindawako, followed closely with a time of 30:04:93, while George Khanje secured third place in 30:57:54.

In the women’s 10 km race, Moneyi Chigayipe took home the gold with a time of 36:50:22. Mercy Malembo finished in second place with a time of 37:20:14, and Enifa Kaponda secured third place, finishing in 37:54:02.

The men’s 5 km race saw Edison Mwata claim first place with a time of 30:22:63, while Joseph Mwale took second place at 31:00:50. Aaron White finished third at 31:43:05.

Meanwhile, in the women’s 5 km race, Milliam Kachingwe emerged victorious, finishing in 18:53:81.

Lydia Mwenechanya followed in second place with a time of 19:21:15, and Ruth Phiri finished third, clocking in at 19:31:12.