Local long-distance runner Lavinia Haitope is set to kick off her 2026 campaign when she competes in the 21.1-kilometre (km) race at the 5th Kazungula Bridge Marathon in Botswana on Saturday.
The annual event, which has steadily grown in stature within the regional athletics calendar, will feature multiple race categories, including the 2.2km fun run, 8km, 15km and the 21.1km half-marathon.
This year’s edition introduces adjusted race distances: the former 5km is extended to 8km, and the 10km is upgraded to 15km, ensuring that all participants experience the highlight of the event: crossing the iconic Kazungula Bridge.
The bridge, which connects Botswana and Zambia, remains the signature feature of the marathon and makes it one of the few races in the world staged across two countries. Athletes will run part of the route over the landmark structure into Zambia before returning to Botswana, offering a unique cross-border racing experience.
For Haitope, Saturday’s race marks her first competitive outing of the year. She heads into the event with confidence following an impressive performance at last year’s Botswana International Cross Country Championships, where she clinched a gold medal.
“Training has been going really well. I have been preparing for this race for about two months, focusing on endurance and speed. The goal is to start the season strong and build momentum for the bigger races ahead,” she said.
Haitope’s preparation has included structured long-distance sessions, speed intervals and strength work aimed at sharpening her finishing kick. Competing in the 21.1km distance will test both her stamina and tactical discipline against a competitive regional field.