Kasteni, mbemba win be more race

Malawi Defence Force (MDF) athletes Kefasi Kasiteni and Fostina Mbemba yesterday won the 2026 Standard Bank Be More Race in 21-kilometre (km) men and ladies categories, respectively, at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.

The competition attracted over 4 000 athletes, who contested in in 21km, 10km and 5km distances.

In the 21km men’s category, Kasteni from Cobbe Barracks claimed the ultimate glory after crossing the finish line in 1.05:45 hours, 10 seconds ahead of his runner up Brave Mwamphanthe from Chilumba Garrison and 27 seconds better that third-placed Thomas Chunga.

In women’s category, the honours went to Moyale Barracks’ Mbemba, who clocked 1.19:56. Mercy Malembo from Armoured Battalion was second in 1.22:32 while Enifa Kaponda was third in 2.21:47.

Mbemba attributed her victory to God’s grace and hard work.

Kasiteni crosses the finish line. | Courtesy of Standard Bank

“I trained hard because I wanted to win. I thank God for ensuring that my dream comes into reality,” she said.

Winners in the 21km distance received K2.5 million each. Second and third-placed individuals got K1.7 million and K1.5 million, respectively.

Standard Bank chief executive officer Philip Madinga said the Be More Race is expanding beyond just wellness and physical wellbeing.

“This is beyond a marathon. It has become a movement and this year’s theme, ‘Keep growing’, was carefully selected as it is about resilience and bringing communities together,” he said.

“What was special about this year’s edition was collaboration. We saw more partners supporting the event and showcasing their products.”

He said just like in the past editions, the funds raised will go towards a good cause, supporting talents in schools.

Malawi National Council of Sports chairperson Jimu Kalua thanked the bank for investing in athletics and social services.

“Let me commend Standard Bank for complementing government’s efforts to promote physical wellbeing, active lifestyle and preventive health care among others,” he said.

“The Be More Race has consistently demonstrated its dedication to supporting good causes and proving that sports can be a powerful tool for social transformation.”

Kalua said since inception in 2017, proceeds from the race have extended to health care, education and even the sports sector.

“As we celebrate the Be More Race winners, let us acknowledge the power of partnerships in driving change. I urge more companies to emulate Standard Bank model of using sports to improve communities,” he said

Athletics Association of Malawi president Kondwani Chamwala thanked Standard Bank for their commitment to developing athletics in the country.

“We are excited with the colourful event. We have seen our top athletes battling it out. We are grateful to Standard Bank. We also thank the government for creating a conducive environment for this event to thrive,” he said.

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