Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
BULAWAYO Athletics Board (BAB) has hailed marathon runner Isaac Mpofu as a “true inspiration” after his outstanding showing at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
Mpofu, Zimbabwe’s national marathon record holder, clocked a season best 2 hours 10 minutes 46 seconds to finish 10th in Monday’s men’s race. It was his second top-10 placing at the global showpiece after a similar result in Eugene, United States, in 2022.
While the international athletics community celebrates his consistency, Mpofu’s impact is most deeply felt in his home city. Bab chairman, Watson Madanyika said the runner’s journey proves that local athletes can reach the very top.
“Isaac Mpofu is not just a great athlete, he is a role model for the entire Bulawayo athletics community. His success on the world stage is proof that with hard work, discipline and determination, athletes from Bulawayo can compete with the best. Young athletes now have someone to look up to. Isaac’s journey started right here, on the tracks and streets of Bulawayo. Today, he is among the world’s top marathoners. That’s the inspiration our young runners need,” said Madanyika.
At 38, Mpofu has built a reputation as one of Zimbabwe’s most reliable long distance performers. Besides his back-to-back top-10 finishes at the World Championships, he came 15th in Budapest last year and 19th at the Paris Olympics, underlining his class on the global stage.
Madanyika also praised Mpofu’s quiet dedication.
“Isaac lets his feet do the talking. He doesn’t chase the spotlight, but his results speak volumes. That’s the kind of attitude we hope to instil in all our athletes,” he said.
Mpofu’s story of perseverance and excellence is now a rallying point for Bulawayo’s young runners, giving them proof that world class achievement can start on their own streets.
