Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira
LONG-distance runner Isaac Mpofu is currently sidelined with a hip injury that forced him to withdraw from the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (Naaz) track and field championships held at White City Stadium over the weekend.
The injury, which struck unexpectedly just before the competition, has temporarily derailed Mpofu’s preparations for World Championships qualification.
However, the seasoned athlete remains focused on recovery and his future goals.
In an interview with Zimpapers Sports Hub, Mpofu expressed concern about the injury, but remained hopeful.
“I have problems with my hip. I was meant to take part in today’s event, but unfortunately, I have an injury. It’s a setback that I need to address carefully. If I don’t recover in time, I may be forced to miss out on some of the World Championships qualifiers – but I hope I will recover soon,” said Mpofu.
While doctors are still working to determine the exact nature of the injury, the 33-year-old marathoner is optimistic about returning to full fitness soon.
Despite this temporary hurdle, Mpofu is already looking ahead with clear intent. He has set his sights on the 2025 World Athletics Championships, scheduled to take place in Tokyo, Japan, from September 13 to 21.
“The World Athletics Championships are my next major target. I know it’s going to be tough, but I’m determined,” he said.
Mpofu, who made his Olympic debut last year, enjoyed a stellar 2024 season. He was crowned Bulawayo Athletics Board (BAB) Athlete of the Year for the second year running – an accolade that reflected his consistent excellence.
In 2024, he placed 19th in the Olympic marathon and added to his achievements with a bronze medal at the African Games in Accra, Ghana. In that race, Mpofu clocked 1 hour, 5 minutes, and 58 seconds to finish third.
Meanwhile, Naaz has opened entries for the National Junior Championships, set to take place on April 12 at White City Stadium.
The event promises a thrilling day of athletics, showcasing the best of Zimbabwe’s emerging talent in a range of track and field disciplines. Events include the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1 500m, 3 000m, and 5 000m races, as well as hurdles, long jump, high jump, triple jump, javelin, and discus.
Entry fees are pegged at US$2 per event for individual athletes and US$4 per relay team.
In addition to the Naaz Junior Championships, another major event is making a much-anticipated comeback – the Bulawayo Marathon.
After a hiatus since its last sponsorship by Coca-Cola in 2020, the event is set to return on April 19, 2025, at White City Stadium, now rebranded as the Baldmin Bulawayo Marathon.
Once regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s premier long-distance races, the marathon is famed for its scenic route through Bulawayo’s western suburbs, drawing both local and international athletes.
Registration opened on January 15, 2025, and closes on April 15, 2025. Race numbers can be collected from April 16 to 18 at White City Stadium between 9am and 5pm and on race day between 5am and 6am.
Athletes will receive confirmation of their race number via email or SMS – so it’s essential to provide accurate contact details. Proof of identity and race confirmation must be presented when collecting race packs. Representatives collecting on behalf of others must also show valid ID.
The event will feature 21km, 10km, and 5km race categories, with entry fees set at US$15.
The Baldmin Bulawayo Marathon is more than a race – it’s a celebration of healthy, active living, community spirit, and local pride. It promises to be a memorable occasion for athletes and spectators alike. — @innocentskizoe.
