Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Victoria Falls Reporter
EXCITEMENT is building as the picturesque City of Victoria Falls prepares to host the highly anticipated Econet Victoria Falls Marathon this morning.
A record number of participants is expected in this year’s edition of the competition.
Race director Brent Williamson, confirmed that all preparations are complete, with over 5 200 entries across the four events, the full marathon, half marathon, fun run and the category for those with disabilities marking a significant increase from last year’s figures.
“The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon, we are nearly there. Sunday is going to be a big day. We have got over 5 200 entries across all three events, well, four events, because there is also the category for those with disabilities,” said Williamson.
He re-affirmed the organisers’ commitment to safety and efficiency.
“All preparations are in place. We are making sure that we have enough staff on the route to manage the safety of our runners. We are also training the guys at the water points to ensure the best possible service delivery,” he said.
Williamson expressed confidence that this year’s event could surpass previous editions in terms of organisation and runner experience.
“We are expecting to have the event at a much higher level of service delivery on the ground for the runners, and we are really looking forward to everybody coming in and running with us,” he said.
This year’s marathon has seen a significant rise in entries compared to 2024.
“Last year, we had 5 150 entries online, but only 4 980 actually showed up on the day and ran. However, this year, we are at 5 280. How many people show up, we do not really know until the day when the timing guys can tell us exactly how many have run,” he said.
The 21.1km remains the most popular, but logistical constraints, particularly the narrow Victoria Falls Bridge, which runners cross into Zambia before turning back, has limited capacity.
“We can only have so many people on the fun run,” he said.
Despite these challenges, participation has increased across all categories.
“The full marathon has grown from 600 to 780, the fun run has grown from 1 500 last year to 1 750 this year. We are at capacity, we cannot take any more entries,” he said.
Entries closed on 10 June due to the overwhelming response.
“When we are at capacity, why we close the entries early is not to make it hard for people — it is because we have got a lot of preparation to do behind the scenes. When you are preparing for 5 000 or more runners, you have got to make sure your water is in place, your security is in place, your Coca-Cola supplies are correct, your salt, everything.
We just need that time to ensure we are well prepared,” he said.
A day before the race, athletes were busy collecting their badges.
They expressed enthusiasm and readiness to take to the starting line.
Tendai Moyo, a first-time 21.1km runner from Bulawayo, said: “I have been training for months and I am excited to finally experience this iconic race. The atmosphere here is electric, and running across the Victoria Falls Bridge is a dream come true,” he said.
Another participant, Sarah Chikwava shared her views too: “This is my third Victoria Falls Marathon, and the organisation keeps getting better. I am aiming for a personal best this year, and with the preparations I have seen, I know it is going to be a smooth race,” he said.
The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon is renowned for its breathtaking route, taking runners through the Rainforest, alongside the Zambezi River and across the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge.
The event does not only promote elite athletes, fitness and tourism but also supports local charities, making it a highlight on Zimbabwe’s sporting calendar.
With everything in place and record numbers expected, the race promises to be a memorable day for runners, organisers and spectators alike.
Olympian, Isaac Mpofu will be among the star attractions. — @nyeve14.
