happiness Chikwanha
Thupeyo Muleya , Beitbridge Bureau
ZRP’s long distance runner, Elijah Mabhunu came out victorious after beating perennial contenders Wellington Varevi and Lord Biskmark Mathe to the finish line in the 21,1 km race in Beitbridge on Saturday.
Varevi, who came up in second position, runs for Black Rhinos while Mathe who arrived a few seconds later in third position runs for Great Dyke athletics club.
The 9th edition of the half marathon was held along the Beitbridge-Bulawayo road as a way of raising awareness against littering.
The town currently produces at least 1000 tonnes of litter every month, while the council is only able to collect around 700 tonnes.
In the senior women’s race, a member of ZRP, Philippa Dube, outpaced Annie Chirisa, a fellow team member and Tatenda Chichanga of Black Rhinos who came second and third respectively.
Over 450 athletes turned up for the 21.1km, 10km and 5km power walk races.
A delighted Mabhunu said he was excited to have participated in a race that promotes a culture of keeping a clean environment.
Dube urged Beitbridge residents to keep the town clean.
Millen Matende (Black Rhinos), Nkosiyazi Sibanda (Blanket Mine and Zumba Mhere (Fitness First) arrived at the finishing line in first, second and third positions in the male veterans category.
Chiedza Chokore and Monica Katiyo (both from Nedbank) were crowned winners in the female veterans’ category.
Army side (Black Rhinos) athletes Moses Tarakinyu and Nhamoinesu Mavuka came out winners in the 10km male and female races.
James Mupedzisi was the fastest rider in the cycling race while Munyaradzi Katiyo won in the paralympics male category.
Beitbridge senior Environmental Health officer, Pio Muchena said it was pleasing to note that the event was growing bigger with each addition.
Beitbridge Mayor, Councillor Peter Pirato Mafuta said the event was a huge success.
His Gwanda counterpart, Councillor Thulani Moyo, said the event was a great concept.
Online Reporter