adminthe opportunity to showcase their talent on the local scene.
Harare City Council hosted its first ever 42,2km race that started and ended at the National Sports Stadium on Sunday.
In the past, long distance runners have had to travel to foreign countries especially South Africa to compete in races such as the Two Oceans and Comrades marathon among others.
Renowned long distance runner, Abel Chimukoko who came ninth in the marathon said the event will see local athletes building their careers locally.
“I am very happy and I would like to congratulate the organisers. If we have three more races I don’t think the athletes will go outside the country to compete.
“Events like this one would groom the athletes. Some can not afford to go outside the country because of limited resources,” said Chimukoko.
Chimukoko said he was considering retirement but now that there is a local marathon he is making a comeback.
“I feel great because I have been competing outside the country.
“This type of marathon gives me the opportunity to compete locally.
“I almost went into retirement after 21 years of running. I spent most of my years outside the country because there were no races locally and I just want to run locally and groom the young athletes.
“Sport is very important for a country because, besides monetary benefit, it is a tourism attraction. It brings all groups of people, races and cultures together,” said Chimukoko.
Top female runner Sharon Tavengwa said the move by XHIB-IT Events Management Company is a motivation for local long distance runners.
“We have been lacking sponsors in Zimbabwe. Having a huge marathon like this is a good motivation. We are hoping that our careers will keep improving,” said Tavengwa.
Tavengwa was fifth in the race.
The Sunshine City Marathon also attracted foreign athletes from Kenya, Namibia and South Africa with the East Africans making their presence felt by dominating the men’s event.
The organisers of the race said they are going make the event an annual event with five more races on the cards starting late this year.
Online Reporter