Online Reporter
Moffat Mungazi
Sports Reporter
ELITE and amateur athletes are in for a thrilling treat tomorrow (Saturday), when they take to the course for the inaugural Mutarazi Falls Ultra Marathon in Mutasa District.
The first of its kind, the marathon promises to be a something-for-everyone affair — from the course’s challenging terrain of rolling mountains for the runners to the breath-taking landscapes for the cheerleaders.
On the track, athletes will compete in the 5km, 10km, 31km relay and the 62km ultra marathon.
For spectators, a host of activities have been lined up as they soak in the stunning and serene environs of Honde Valley.
Event organisers said all is set for what promises to be a thrilling outing.
“Everything is now in place for the Mutarazi Falls Ultra Marathon as registration has been going on smoothly. Registration is US$20 per runner across all races and every participant will receive a medal. Besides the 5km and 10km, both fun run/walk, we have spiced things up with the 31km relay and 62km ultra marathon. The relay is a two-person team event, with one runner racing from Hauna to Selbourne and the other covering the return distance. The former two races start at 6am while the latter two start 30 minutes earlier,” said Alois Bunjira, whose Albun Fitness Club is the brains behind the event.
The former CAPS United and Warriors forward is a native of Honde Valley, and said the initiative is his way of promoting health and fitness for local communities, while also spotlighting the area’s places of interest.
Bunjira said they cherish the Mutarazi Falls Ultra Marathon for its unique quality.
“This is more than just a race; it is a unique experience. We are turning it into a fulfilling and memorable outing. In collaboration with our partners, we have lined up lots of exciting activities including the zip line and skywalk, social soccer, leisure bash, and braai fete just to create collective great vibes around the spectacular views of Honde Valley. We have also organised visits to Nyangombe Falls, Pit Structures and The Brighton Beach, while accommodation facilities in the vicinity have been secured. Nyaradzo Group are offering the camping village for two nights and transport to the venue. One cannot afford to miss this for anything,” said Bunjira.
The event is set to give race participants and spectators a chance to enjoy the allure of Mutarazi Falls, the highest waterfall in Zimbabwe and the second highest in Africa after the Tugela Falls in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
