Athletics

MBABANE - The kingdom’s fastest female sprinter, Bongiwe Mahlalela, has been recognised by South Africa’s Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).

The specialist in the 100m, 200m and 400m events was awarded the International Participation gong two days ago at an event held at the Park Lodge Hotel.

Specifically, Mahlalela sprinted her way into history, smashing the indoor 400m record with a time of 56.34 seconds. This was during the World Indoor Championships that were held in China in March. For this achievement, TUT felt she deserved a pat on the back and awarded her this gong once again.

“I’d like to sincerely thank TUT for awarding me the International Participation Award and for nominating me for the prestigious Sportswoman of the Year title... I’m deeply grateful to the university for acknowledging my efforts on the global stage,” she said.

She added that this marks the third time TUT has recognised her achievements, genuinely affirming the sense of loyalty, support and belief the institution has in her. “Their continued encouragement inspires me to keep pushing boundaries and representing our university with pride,” Mahlalela added.

It is also worth noting that she is a beneficiary of the Eswatini 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games scholarship programme.

Eswatini sprinter Bongiwe Mahlalela has been honoured three times by South Africa’s Tshwane University of Technology during their Sports awards. (Pic: Courtesy)