Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga, Zimpapers Sports Hub
RUNNING injured but full of determination, Zimbabwean fitness enthusiast Kudzai Pasipanodya proved that spirit often outruns pain, completing the gruelling 98th edition of the Comrades Marathon in Durban on Sunday.
Dubbed “The Ultimate Human Race,” the ultra-marathon attracted over 22 677 athletes, who took on the brutal course between Pietermaritzburg and Durban.
Pasipanodya, who returned home yesterday, was elated to have crossed the finish line despite carrying an injury.
“It was a difficult one, but I am happy that I managed to complete the race despite the injury. I was targeting less than nine hours, which I’ve managed in my last four attempts. I’m happy that I’m trying hard to set my personal best like I did at the Dubai Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon before,” he said.
On the elite end, seasoned runner Givemore Mudzinganyama emerged as the top placed Zimbabwean, finishing 10th overall at this year’s Comrades. The Entsika Athletics Club star clocked an impressive time of five hours, 12 minutes, and 16 seconds.
This was only his second Comrades attempt, having debuted last year, where he also secured a top 10 finish. The former Two Oceans winner proved he’s no flash in the pan, running with poise and purpose.
“It was a good sign, he had the taste of it, and he started this year’s race with confidence,” said one coach familiar with his journey.
Lyon Muchena of Nedbank Running Club also impressed, finishing 34th in 5:28:13. Liberty Malabwa followed in 46th place with a time of 5:32:02.
In the women’s category, Loveness Madziva was the top placed Zimbabwean woman, finishing 140th in 6:07:03. The Hollywood Athletics Club based athlete finished ahead of compatriots Monica Kativhu and Patricia Chikambure.
Also making the starting line for Zimbabwe were Nyasha Marira, Christopher Tavaziva, and Komborero Mwenyendiyani, showcasing the country’s depth at one of the world’s toughest endurance races.
—@ChitsigaTakz
This article is false. The winner ran 5hrs 25minutes.