By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Mary Grace Dzekenyuy Wirba, the newly crowned champion of the 2026 Mount Cameroon Race of Hope (Senior Women’s category), has officially presented her trophy to the Fon of Nso, His Royal Majesty Sehm Mbinglo I.
The ceremony that took place on Saturday, February 28 in Yaoundé, saw Grace Wirba accompanied by members of the Nso Renaissance Sport Initiative (NSRI), Bui Strikers Veterans of Yaoundé, and a close circle of family and friends among others.
In an audience with the champion, Sehm Mbinglo I expressed immense pride in seeing his daughter reach the pinnacle of the grueling mountain race. While offering his traditional blessings, the Fon described her victory as a forerunner of future success for the community.
“Your victory is the beginning of great things to happen,” the Fon remarked, calling for the community to “let love lead.”
For Grace Wirba, the visit was a spiritual and cultural necessity. “Coming to see my father was of utmost importance to receive his blessings,” she stated, noting that the Fon’s encouragement has further fueled her drive to succeed as he looks ahead to another challenge.
Talking about her victory in the women’s category of the 2026 Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, she stated, “I cannot even believe that I won, because it’s still like a dream to me.” She added that “There is no magic in winning the race. The only secret is hard work, resilience, patience, and sacrifice.”
Despite several challenges she encountered toward the end of the grueling race, she said her spirit and dedicated preparation pushed her through. Looking ahead, she stated that she intends to explore more opportunities as she aims to compete in marathons and international races.
“I know it’s not going to be very easy for me, but I want to explore more in the field of athletics. So, I’m ready again to take up the challenge and also ready to bring up and empower more girls to be like me,” she said. She encouraged other aspiring athletes, stating that “they should be ready to take up the challenge and ready to work hard until they get there.”
Detailing her journey to becoming a champion, she indicated that she had prepared for this moment for nearly 17 years but never expected it to arrive so soon. She noted that while the journey has been difficult, she is happy to have made her mark today.
Caster Berinyuy, Coordinator of NSRI, expressed his joy when Grace Wirba crossed the finish line, noting he was filled with emotion seeing another “Wirfon” win the race.
“I am happy seeing our champion coming to see his father, the Fon. Coming to take royal blessing shows that she knows where she comes from. It is always a moment of emotions seeing a son and daughter cross the finished line. It comes with joy and I am happy for the present and past winners,” Berinyuy said.
He added that it is time to support the champion, given that she has proven her capabilities. With opportunities available abroad, he called on all to join hands and help her compete in other competitions outside the country, as she has expressed interest in venturing into marathons.
Grace Wirba hails from Mbohtong Village in the Nso area of Bui Division, Northwest Region of Cameroon. Apart from being an athlete, she is a referee, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics. She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree.
