Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
BULAWAYO was painted black and white on Saturday as hundreds of Highlanders supporters, athletes and fitness enthusiasts turned out for the club’s Centenary Half Marathon, transforming the streets into a celebration of fitness, community and a century of football history.
The famous Highlanders colours were on full display as people came in their numbers to support the event, bringing a festive atmosphere to a race that took the club’s centenary celebrations beyond the football pitch.
And on the road, Mthokozisi Mhlanga and Caroline Mhandu stole the show, winning the men’s and women’s 21km races respectively in an event that attracted runners across different categories.
Mhlanga clocked one hour, six minutes and 45 seconds (1:06:45) to win the men’s 21km race, with Olympian Isaac Mpofu finishing second in 1:07:38. Thabo Mapfumo completed the podium in 1:08:11.
The contest was closely fought, with Mpofu keeping Mhlanga within reach when the runners reached the halfway mark. However, Mhlanga held his nerve to claim victory in the headline race of the day.
For the winner, triumph at an event linked to one of Zimbabwe’s oldest and most followed football institutions carried special significance.
“I am very pleased to have won this race, especially because it is part of such a historic event. Highlanders has a huge history, and being a winner at its centenary marathon makes this achievement special for me.”
Mhandu won the women’s 21km race in 1:31:29, edging Mirriam Sibanda, who finished second in 1:31:41. Annie Chirisa took third place.
The shorter races also produced impressive performances.
Lesedi Nkomo won the women’s 10km race in 38:56, followed by Lwano Sibanda in 42:19 and Tendai Ncube in 46:37.
Tatenda Hove claimed the men’s 10km title in 31:24, narrowly beating Peter Tawuren, who clocked 31:33. Brave Moyo finished third in 31:45.
The programme also catered for wheelchair athletes, veterans, masters and grand masters, as well as participants in the fun run, ensuring that the centenary celebration extended beyond elite competition.
Favourable weather conditions added to the occasion after several days of intense heat in Bulawayo, giving participants a welcome break from the scorching conditions.
The strong turnout reflected the emotional connection between Highlanders and the people of Bulawayo, with the club’s black-and-white identity providing a unifying theme for the day.
For a club marking 100 years of existence, the marathon was more than a sporting event. It was an opportunity to bring supporters, families and the wider community together in celebration of an institution whose influence stretches well beyond football.
With prize money of US$500 for each 21km winner and US$200 for each 10km winner, the event offered athletes both competitive incentives and an opportunity to be part of Highlanders’ landmark year.
