Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zimbabwe pool fraternity is celebrating after their sport was officially included in the Kasambabezi Binga Marathon, the country’s biggest sporting and cultural festival, set for September 26 to 28.
For years September has brought rare excitement to the remote Binga district of Matabeleland North. Now pool joins the fun. “We are glad that the pool family has finally been recognised,” said Zimbabwe Pool Association public relations officer Donald Wadawu.
“It is the first time pool has been introduced on a weekend when the marathon is the main event. Our teams are ready and it’s a blessing for the Zimbabwean pool family.”
The marathon traces its roots to 2008 when the late Nkululeko Sibanda, then chief executive of Twalumba Holdings, launched the Kujatana Nkubotu Peace Half Marathon to mark International Peace Day. It has since evolved into the Kasambabezi Binga Marathon, now drawing runners from home and abroad.
“This is not just about running,” said Thabo Clarence, founder of Open Letta Communications, who helped rebrand and grow the event.
“The new logo is more than a design. It’s a new heartbeat for the BaTonga people. It’s about putting Binga and Zimbabwe on the world map.”
Runners will tackle 42.2 km, 21.1 km, 10 km and 5 km courses. Side events include a 50 km cycle race and a 10 km wheelchair challenge. In Poland, participants will run a 12 km route around Lake Zemborzycki, with organisers aiming for a full marathon there by 2026.
The Binga edition will run alongside the BaTonga Cultural
Festival, promising traditional dance, music, chess, draughts and local food to create a weekend of colour and celebration. Lublin in Poland will host its own African food expo and cultural displays to introduce Zimbabwe’s spirit to Europe.
Never Mwinde, founder and chairperson of the race, hailed
the international growth. “It has always been about community and culture. We started this to bring pride to Binga.
Now, seeing it spread to another
continent, it’s proof that we are doing something powerful. The new team is bringing fresh vision and energy.”
Organisers expect more than 2 000 runners and about 3 000spectators in Binga. Traditional leaders, government ministers and other dignitaries are expected to attend.
The 21.1 km race was certified in 2011 by the International
Association of Athletics Federations. This year’s event will again showcase
Binga’s natural treasures, from hot springs to the Zambezi beach, offering
visitors a full cultural and tourism package.
From a quiet corner of Zimbabwe to a race with global reach,
the Kasambabezi Binga Marathon is now more than a local attraction. With pool
on board, the festival promises an even richer sporting spectacle.
