Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
WYANE KABONDO and Caroline Mhandu were the toast of the annual Jacaranda Bloom Half Marathon after storming to victory in the 21km race held at Harare Gardens yesterday.
Kabondo crossed the finish line in 1 hour 5 minutes 36 seconds, outpacing Kenyan runner Isaac Langat, who clocked 1 hour 7 minutes 20 seconds, while Patrick Koskei took third in 1 hour 7 minutes 30 seconds.
In the women’s division, Mhandu claimed gold in 1 hour 16 minutes 35 seconds, ahead of Mirriam Sibanda on 1 hour 26 minutes 30 seconds and Ethel Pangiso, who completed the podium in 1 hour 27 minutes 14 seconds. Kabondo was thrilled with his win and said it boosted his confidence ahead of upcoming races, including the Vumba Half Marathon.
“I’m happy with this win and I’d trained hard for it. I’m now looking forward to the Vumba Half Marathon where I believe I’ll do well,” said Kabondo.
“The terrain was fair, and running in Harare is always challenging, but I managed to break away at the 13km mark and maintained my lead to the finish.”
Mhandu described her win as a timely confidence boost before the Vumba race in two weeks’ time.
“I’m very happy to have won this event, especially as it prepares me for the Vumba Half Marathon,” said Mhandu.
“The race was tough, but I give credit to my trainers and everyone who supported me. The events are coming thick and fast, and that builds our endurance as we also aim to qualify for international competitions. My time is improving, and I’m optimistic about what’s ahead.”
In the junior races, Jacob Sipanela won the boys’ 10km event in 31 minutes 14 seconds, ahead of Ndodana Paradza on 31 minutes 45 seconds, while Shamiso Mushayi took the women’s 10km title in 44 minutes 57 seconds, narrowly beating Patricia Tavaonesa, who finished in 45 minutes 12 seconds.
The marathon, sponsored by Harare City Council, drew nearly 600 participants, double last year’s turnout. Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume, who was the guest of honour, praised the growing interest in the event.
“We’re happy with the participation, from around 300 in our first edition last year to nearly 600 this year. It shows the marathon is gaining traction,” said Mafume.
“Next year we’re targeting a thousand participants or more. As a city, we’re reinvesting in sport, from football, athletics, swimming, tennis, to basketball. We want to give young people opportunities and steer them away from the drug problem affecting our communities.
“We also appreciate the corporates that have come on board and encourage more to partner with us. Pooling resources is key to developing a healthy city.”
