adminTakudzwa Chitsiga in MUTARE
KELVIN Pangiso of the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services successfully defended his Tanganda Tea 21 km half marathon title when he won the race in 1hour 6minutes 08seconds here yesterday.
The seasoned campaigner romped to victory ahead of ZRP’s Munyaradzi Jari who finished in 1hour 7minutes.
“It was sweet victory, I worked hard and it payed and I am happy I defended my title. I managed to break away with eight kilometers left and remained focused until the finishing line.
“The good thing is I have defended my title and I thank ZPSC for giving us the opportunity to take part in these events. We were 11 of us.
“I urge the organisers, Tanganda, to give medals to those who would have excelled as cash alone is not enough given one needs something to show in the future,” said Pangiso.
Patience Murove, also from ZPCS, emerged the winner in the 21km women’s event in 1hour 19minutes to pocket $550.
Chiedza Chokore was second in 1hour 19minutes 33seconds while defending champion Constance Nyasango was third.
Elford Moyo clinched the wheelchair 21 km race ahead of Samson Muroyiwa who kept him at bay only to break away in the last two kilometres.
“Samson gave me a good run for my money but experience mattered most in the last few kilometers. I believe he is the future of wheel chair racing,” said Moyo.
Muroyiwa said this year’s target was to beat Moyo.
“I gave him a good run and he beat me because of his strength when going down the slope,” said Muroyiwa.
In the junior category, Paul Marikano, won the title and said his focus was now on the Econet Marathon set for next Sunday.
“I am very happy to have won the race and to defend this title. I am now looking forward to the Econet Marathon in Victoria Falls.
“I thank my club for supporting me as they are paying my school fees. I want to be a professional athlete,” said Marikano.
Online Reporter