Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
SEASONED runner Moses Tarakinyu will once again be the favourite to retain his crown when he features in the annual Tanganda half marathon in Mutare on Sunday.
Tarakinyu has become a master at winning half-marathons in the country.
Along with Ethel Pangiso, they will be star attractions as they seek to defend their men’s and women’s titles.
The race looks set to be even bigger this year with over 1 000 athletes from around the world expected to participate.
This prestigious race will feature three categories: a 21km half marathon, a 10km race and a 5km fun run.
There will also be 10km and 21.1km wheelchair races.
The winner of the 21km race will represent Zimbabwe at the World half marathon in the United States in September.
It has also emerged that there will be an increased purse this year, which should be additional motivation for the participants.
National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe president Tendai Tagara expressed excitement ahead of the race, highlighting its importance on both the national and international athletics calendar.
“We are looking forward to the Tanganda half marathon which will be staged this weekend in Mutare.
“The Tanganda half marathon is one of our most prestigious races, and the winner of the main race will represent the country at the world half marathon that will be staged in the US in September.
“We are expecting fierce competition as the race carries international significance with the ticket to the US half marathon.
“The event will serve as a qualifier for global half marathon events, including a major race in the United States scheduled for September.
“We are happy that we have had many corporates coming on board and this has shown confidence in one of our high-profile half marathon races.
There are a lot of athletes who have shown interest and as an association we are happy that we will be able to hold the race again in 2025,” said Tagara.
The race is sponsored and organised by Tanganda Tea Company, whose commitment to the development of sport in Zimbabwe has been evident in the steady growth and professionalisation of the event over the years.
“We are committed to this race and we are very happy with how it has grown over the past years,” said Tanganda Tea Company operations manager Farai Garayi.
“We are looking forward to another successful race this Sunday, and we wish all the athletes the best come race day.”
