Boost for Mr Pace Zimpost race

Takudzwa Chitsiga

Sports Reporter

THE third edition of the Mr Pace Zimpost half-marathon was launched yesterday with an improved budget of US$20 000 from last year’s US$10 000 package.

The event, which began in 2022 with 10km and 5km races, was improved to a half marathon last year where they incorporated the 21km half marathon and will this year be held at the National Sports Stadium B Arena on May 18.

Mr Pace Athletics club chairman Collen Makaza said he was happy with the gesture by Zimpost and Nicoz Diamonds, who have come on board to partner them, and they will make sure that the race lives up to expectations.

“I am very grateful to the sponsors for offering us an opportunity to stage the third edition of the Mr Pace Zimpost half-marathon. After last year’s edition, which we improved to a half-marathon which is the 21km we are looking forward to a good turn out once again.

“There will also be the wheelchair race, 10km which is for development, 5km fun run for all individuals and the 1km executive race. We are looking forward to around 700 athletes, which is an improvement from last year’s edition when we had above 500 athletes.

“The athletes have been preparing so hard especially those I work with they will have the Matopos race in Matabeleland on Sunday.

“We are going to give value of money to the sponsors by staging a well organised event,” said Makaza.

Zimpost general manager Maxwell Chitendeni said they are happy to have partnered Mr Pace for the third time and are looking forward to see some seasoned and future stars during the races.

“We are happy with the progress we have made so far and the Zimpost half marathon is part of our Post Insurance 2024 promotions which will run until October.

“Athletics or sports in general promotes health lifestyle and health living and we as Zimpost we have decided to make sure we support that through initiatives like these,’ said Chitandeni.

Nicoz Diamond, through their managing director David Nyabadza that they were happy to be part of health and wellness initiatives.