Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo
HIGHLANDERS Athletics Club is set to host its biggest road race yet as the inaugural 21km half marathon takes centre stage this Sunday, transforming the Bosso clubhouse into a carnival of fitness, endurance and fun.
In past editions, the event featured 5km fun runs and 10km contests, but this year the organisers have raised the bar by introducing a full half marathon. The start and finish line will be at the Highlanders Clubhouse, with additional attractions that include Zumba and aerobics sessions for non-runners.
Club chairperson Lawrence Phiri, told the media that the build-up has been promising.
“Last year, we had close to 150 runners and this year, we are looking to double that number, with confirmations coming from as far as Kwekwe. We have retained the Zumba session for those who prefer a lighter workout so that everyone can be part of this event,” said Phiri.
Unlike last year, which was billed as a simple fun run, the 2025 edition will offer medals and branded running shirts to all participants, with attractive prizes lined up for winners. Sponsors are expected to be confirmed before race day.
The race route is mapped along Airport Road, with the half marathoners turning back at the 10.5km mark, 10km runners at the 5km point, and the 5km crowd heading back at 2.5km.
The marathon has attracted strong corporate backing, with CBZ, First Mutual, Zimparks, Nssa and Nyaradzo signing up teams. Other partners include Schweppes, Sila Health, SWIFT, John Landa Nkomo Memorial Trust, Econet, ZimbosAbantu and Itel.
Phiri said the race also ties into Highlanders Football Club’s build-up to its 2026 Centenary Celebrations, a milestone the club is preparing to mark in grand style.
Bulawayo Athletics Board chairperson Watson Madanyika hailed the initiative, noting that such events play a vital role in nurturing competitive runners.
“As BAB, we are proud of Highlanders Athletics Club for organising this marathon. These are the kinds of races that prepare our athletes to qualify for regional and international competitions. Isaac Mpofu has also promised to be part of this marathon,” said Madanyika.
He encouraged the organisers to align with national standards to attract more professional athletes and called on corporates to continue supporting the event.
To ensure participants are in shape, Highlanders Athletics Club has been conducting free weekly training sessions since August 17, led by technical manager Sidney, Zimunya. The sessions remain open to anyone keen to join the marathon spirit.
On Sunday, all roads lead to the Highlanders Clubhouse where the city will trade football chants for running shoes, proving that Bosso is just as strong on the track as it is on the pitch.
