Asimenye Simwaka and Kefasi Kasten were crowned champions in the 2026 Malawi Defence Force (MDF) inter-service cross-country at Gymkhana Club in Zomba City.
Each of them received K1 million for defending their titles on Friday.
The race attracted teams and individuals who competed in outdoor courses over natural terrain.
In the ladies’ category, Simwaka had finished the 10km race in 43 minutes and 59 seconds, exerting pressure on competitors Mary Kamwendo and Chifundo Chadza, who came second and third, respectively.
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In the men’s category, Kasten covered the same distance in 33 minutes and 39 seconds.
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His strongest contenders, Brave Mwamphathe and Prince Mphepo, came second and third, respectively.
In team events, Three Malawi Rifles (Moyale) were crowned champions in the men’s category after collecting 25 points while One Malawi Rifles (Cobbe) emerged ladies’ champions with 26 points.
Champions in team events received K2.5 million each.
MDF Deputy Chief Lieutenant General Kondwani Gift Kalino, who presided over the event, said the aim of the competition was to promote fitness and teamwork.
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“A soldier must be physically fit and mentally well,” said Kalino, lauding sponsors Msilikali Sacco and Medical Aid Society of Malawi.
At least 234 athletes from 20 MDF units were present and joined the competition.
On his part, Colonel Chikondi Chalira said the event started when the MDF was introduced to Malawi.
“It is an annual event. We have managed what we wanted to get. The aim is to maintain physical fitness among all the players in the MDF,” he said.
Each unit sent 12 athletes (six men and six women) to run in a 10km race.
At the end of it all, winners will form a team that will compete with civilians at national level.
