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Thupeyo Muleya Beitbridge Bureau
This year’s edition of the Beitbridge mayor’s anti-drugs and litter marathon will be held on June 16.
The event is being organised by the Beitbridge municipality as part of their initiative to reduce cases of drug abuse and littering in the area.
Municipality spokesperson Mr Raniel Ndou said they were targeting 350 runners and that the race will be held under the theme: “Everyone against Drugs Abuse and Litter.”
“We are having the race for the third year running, and we are building on the success of the previous two events,” he said.
“Registration has opened at Beitbridge municipality offices. There will be a 21km race, which will start at Lutumba Business Centre along the Masvingo road and finish at Border Services station in the CBD.
“In addition, there will be another 12km road race, which all be held along the same road ending at the same venue. Those who cannot run can register for a 5km power walk, which will start at Masvingo turn off, and end at the border service station. The idea is to raise awareness against issues of drug abuse and littering in our town.”
Mr Ndou said they were mobilising resources to ensure that the event is bigger this year.
He called on those interested in participating to register at the municipality offices or housing offices at their Dulivhadzimo Housing office.
He said entry fees was $3 for adults while all school children’s entry will be free.
“Adults should produce national identification documents, and school children need to bring birth certificates,” said Mr Ndou.
He appealed to businesses and other corporates to complement the municipality’s efforts in the fight against drug abuse and littering.
Littering has become a perennial headache for the local authority with the town producing a total of 700 tonnes of solid waste per month.
Last year, the marathon attracted 156 athletes and was won by veteran long distance runner Jonathan Chinyoka.
He beat over 60 athletes after romping home in 1 hour 10 minutes, with Nkosiyazi Sibanda of Blanket Mine Athletics Club and Gilbert Mutandiro arriving one minute later in second and third positions, respectively.
Mutandiro, who won the inaugural race in 1 hour 8 minutes in 2016, was three minutes slower last year.
The top three winners received trophies, medals and prize money of R1300, R1000 and R750, respectively.
Online Reporter