adminIT was another good day in the office for long-distance runners Elijah Mabhunu and Rutendo Nyahora last Saturday, who clinched the Vumba Marathon 21km titles barely a week after winning the Gutu Half Marathon.
The two trotted away with the grand prizes of $1 000 each, the same amount they bagged at the Gutu Half Marathon held recently.
Mabhunu broke last year’s record of 1hr 9mins 53secs set by Collin Kanyimo to make a new impressive record of 1hr 5mins 15secs, while Nyahora broke her own record of 1hr 20mins 18secs which she set last year, to break a new record of 1hr 17mins 17secs in the ladies section.
Mabhunu, however, faced stiff competition from Lionel Muchena, who came in second in a time of 1hr 6mins 38secs.
The defending champion, Kanyimo, who said was just coming out of an injury, came fifth behind Wirimai Zhuwao and Lewis Masunda.
In the ladies category, Faith Nyasango gave Nyahora a run for her money as she crossed the finish line in a time of 1hr 23mins 17secs, not far off the defending champion.
Alice Manake, Sharon Tawenga and Constance Nyasango came out third, fourth and fifth respectively in the ladies 21km race.
In the 10km race, Jacob Mugomeri won the male race, while Olivia Chitate won the female race each clinching the $500 cash prizes.
In an interview, Mabhunu said since the beginning of the year he had focused his concentration on winning all his races this year and was just glad that his efforts were bearing fruit.
“Since the beginning of the year I told myself that this season I should win and pushed myself hard.
“I am only grateful that I have won most races including those I had lost in previous years, which is an encouraging achievement for any athlete.
“I had a good run from the start at the Vumba Marathon and just maintained my pace and composure,” said Mabhunu.
Over 200 athletes turned out, which was lower than the anticipated 400 athletes.
The number was less than last year’s 300 runners who took part.
The organiser, Byran Rocher, however, said he was content with the turnout and hoped to get more numbers next year.
The 2014 Old Mutual Vumba Mountain Run marked the fourth edition of the marathon, which is arguably the toughest marathon race in the country because of the mountainous terrains.
Online Reporter