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. . Raymond Jaravaza
THE 2017 edition of the Old Mutual Vumba Mountain Half Marathon will for the first time since its inception go digital a�� use of electronic timing a�� in line with recommendations from the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).
The race is set for the Vumba Mountains, Manicaland Province on 28 October.
a�?For the first time we will be using electronic timing for the race for accurate times and records as advocated by the International Association of Athletics Federations. Registration will open next week with adult athletes required to pay $10 each while school kids will be charged $5 each.
a�?Athletes will compete in categories ranging from senior men and women, juniors, veterans and masters (both men and women). Because the terrain is tough wheelchair athletes will not be competing,a�? said Manicaland Athletics Board chairman Joshua Matume.
Athletes will have to endure both the October high temperatures as well as a tough terrain, as they battle it out for honours.
As is the norm, this yeara��s edition is expected to attract top marathon runners in the country, as it is the race that best prepares athletes for gruelling international events.
Last yeara��s race was sponsored to the tune $13 000.
a�?We are meeting the sponsors, Old Mutual, next week for finer details of this yeara��s total sponsorship package,a�? said Matume.
Big names expected to grace this yeara��s event include Olympian, Wirimayi Juwawo, Cuthbert Nyasango for the male category, as well as Rutendo Nyahora for the female class.
Last year, Canisious Nyamutsita won in the male category, while battle-hardened Nyahora claimed honours in the female category.
derick.khumalo