adminNgqwele Dube
THE PPC Matopos 33-Miler will be seeking to revive its status as one of the top marathon events in the region with a well organised race scheduled for next Sunday.
Matobo Conservation Society chairman Gavin Stephens said the fact that the race is the only ultra marathon in the country gives it a unique space on the athletics calendar.
He said the course has been measured and certified by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) and this has enabled the marathon to be a qualifying event for international races including the famed South African Comrades Marathon.
“This year we expect a bigger race with more entrants and more participation from people at various fitness levels. There are three main races and that is the main event, the ultra marathon which is 53km, the 21km half- marathon and the relay race. We also have the 5km race for those who would like a more laid back walking or jogging experience,” he said.
Matobo Conservation Society revived the Matopos 33- Miler in 2013 after it was off the athletics calendar for close to 10 years with the race having been last run in 2004. They roped in PPC Zimbabwe which is the lead sponsor again this year.
“We are hoping the revival of the race will draw attention to the recreational potential of the Matopos National Park, create awareness of the Matobo Hills World Heritage Site and have a marathon for Bulawayo that would engage the community and promote the city,” said Stephens.
The Matopos 33-Miler was first run in 1963 and was organised by the Raylton Rovers Running Club (RRRC), and was won by Charlie Chase (Germiston, South Africa) in a time of 3hrs, 44 minutes and 56 seconds.
Last year Charles Soza and Monica Kativhu came first in the men’s and women section respectively.
The entry fee has been pegged at $10 per runner for the 33 Miler and half marathon while it is $5 per runner for the 5km Fun Run with a relay team of five runners being charged $50. Registration is on Saturday at PPC Zimbabwe offices.
The full marathon and relay starting point will be at the Moth Shrine in Matopo National Park while the half marathon starts at Woolandale Road along Matopos Road and the fun run will begin at Hamilton High School and the finishing point for all races is at Bulawayo Athletic Club.
Online Reporter