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LONG distance runner Jonathan Chinyoka has set a new record for the gruelling Kariba Half Marathon.
Chinyoka, who runs for the Zimbabwe Prison Services, broke the ribbon in 1 hour 5 minutes 15 seconds to defend the title he won last year, but more significantly for him was the new record.
In setting the new record for the five year event, Chinyoka eclipsed the previous mark set by Gilbert Mutandiro of 1 hour 5 minutes 36 seconds set in 2009.
Veteran athlete Nkosiyazi Sibanda came a close second in 1:05:45 while Edwin Chimhomho was third on 1:06:10 as Robson Chigara came fourth in the men’s open race.
Constance Nyasango won the women’s section when she completed the distance in 1:19:00 with Alicen Manake coming a minute behind.Muchaneta Gwata finished third on 1 hour 24 minutes from the event that attracted nearly 300 athletes.
But the day belonged to Chinyoka, who is still cherishing one of his record breaking feats.
“The course in Kariba is a tough terrain with curves to the Zambian boarder and back. So I pushed myself hard because my aim was to break the standing record.
“Last year, I won the same competition in 1 hour 5 minutes and 40 seconds, missing the target by a few seconds.
“So I was better prepared this time and even my rivals pushed me because I think I won by a few seconds while the guy in third position was very close by,” said Chinyoka.
A former junior champion, Chinyoka said he was now preparing for the Johannesburg Marathon in South Africa on September 25.
Online Reporter