Malawian ultra-runner Edson Kumwamba delivered an outstanding performance at the 2025 RMB Ultra-Trail Cape Town (UTCT), finishing 9th out of more than 1,000 athletes in the highly competitive 100km race. Kumwamba crossed the line in an impressive 12 hours, 32 minutes, and 32 seconds, becoming the first African athlete to place in the top finishers of this year’s 100km event, which was contested alongside the event’s flagship 160km race.
UTCT is recognised as one of the world’s premier trail-running festivals and a World Major in the sport, attracting elite runners from across the globe. Hosted in Cape Town, South Africa, the event features multiple race categories, 16km, 55km, 100km, and the 160km (100-mile) ultra, each showcasing the region’s dramatic landscapes.
Kumwamba’s invited participation in the 100km race marks a significant milestone in his athletic career. Supported by a friend in South Africa who provided accommodation and transport, he took on a course renowned for its difficulty and beauty. The 100km route circles the iconic Table Mountain and stretches along the Atlantic coastline, covering 4,800 metres of elevation gain, steep technical descents, and demanding mountain terrain.
By finishing in the top ten, Kumwamba earned a coveted gold medal, which also grants him valuable ITRA (International Trail Running Association) points, crucial for qualification into major global trail-running events.
Kumwamba’s achievement adds to the growing presence of African athletes in international ultra-distance trail competitions and highlights the potential of Malawian talent on the world stage.