eBusiness Weekly
Chipo Sabeta
Amateur and professional runners from across the world are gearing up for another gruelling race in this year’s edition of the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon, set for July 1. More than 1 100 athletes have to date registered for the country’s biggest race, with professional long distance runners expected to be part of the event.
From 300 runners in 2006 when the marathon started to over 2500 runners in 2017, the Vic falls Marathon has registered tremendous growth in numbers.
An annual event on the sports calendar, the race which is fast-reaching iconic status offers a full 42,2km marathon, 21,2km half marathon and a 7,5km fun run.
Preparations for the event are gathering momentum as the marathon provides a platform for both local and international runners to pit themselves against the best.
Professional athlete, Prosper Mutwira, who made a serious impression on debut at last year’s race in the marathon in 2017 has set his focus on conquering this year.
A composed, well timed run saw him claim sixth spot and walking away with US$200 in prize money. At just 22, a lot more is expected of him in years to come.
Mutwira, who is beaming with confidence after a brilliant performance in last month in the JM Busha Race in which he came seventh, said he will go there with the mentality of achieving a top three spot.
“I am aiming to take one step up in my ranking and get myself exposed to the atmosphere of taking part in the international competitions,” Mutwira said.
“Last year was my debut. I now know the routes and I am keen to conquer. I am looking forward to that moment and finish among the top three.
“One of the challenges I have faced was not having a proper ground to train on and that hasn’t deterred my spirit. I keep pushing myself to achieve my dreams no matter what circumstance I face.”
The Victoria Falls marathon route is varied in terms of terrain, while it offers some incredible scenery and opportunity to see wildlife along the way.
It is well supported by regular water points, all managed by the sponsors. Alaina Suliwa, who also made her debut last year is eager to leave a better mark this year.
Although runs for fitness and fun Suliwa said the marathon presented an opportunity for her to relax, socialise and have fun away from her busy day to day routine in Harare.
“It was an exciting experience last year, it’s always fun to run on a new terrain.
“Besides the breath-taking landscapes you will encounter on the marathon, there is plenty more to do and see. I run for my personal fitness.
“I don’t run to compete. I have run numerous marathons in Zimbabwe and South Africa. However, the Victoria Falls has a wealth of activities available.
“There is an opportunity to do rafting, canoeing, boat cruising, game viewing, an elephant back safari or even a bungee jump. The Victoria Falls Marathon is a unique experience,” she said.
Foreign athletes expected to compete come as far as Australia, US, Canada and neighbouring South Africa, Botswana
According to a statement on the race’s official website the race had registered over 1 080 athletes by end of May while more were still expected to register.
“We had 1 080 runners across all events and 191 for the full marathon.
“Meanwhile, online entries closed on June 10 while local entries will be happening at Kingdom Hotel on the 29th and 30th of June. No registration will be accepted on the day of the event.
“The event start at Vic Falls on Livingstone Way. The 42,5km is scheduled to begin at 6: 45am, the 21km half marathon at 7:15am whilst the 7,5km fun is scheduled to start at 8:15am. The race will end at Victoria Falls Primary school. This year’s even is also spiced up with the Steward Bank Team Relay Challenge.
“The race has a team of two runners. Each runner is to complete approximately half the distance to make up a combined distance of a 21km half marathon.
“Teams can be mixed or all males or all females. Either way, as this is a fun event, the fastest team will be awarded the prize regardless of gender split
