PPC 53 Miler registration on

OVER 1 500 athletes have so far registered for the PPC Matopos Marathon set for this Sunday.

The figures are set to go up as it is the last week leading to the event.

Registration opened a month ago with runners having the option of filling in physical entry forms or online on the PPC website.

Bulawayo Athletics Board (Bab) chairman, Watson Madanyika said they are anticipating this year’s entries to surpass the 2019 turnout.

“In 2019, we had over 3 000 entries and we are hopeful that we will go beyond that figure. By the end of last week over 1 500 participants had registered for this year’s event.

“We have not had this race since 2019 and we hope people are eager for the return which should add to the numbers.

“Registration is in progress online and the final physical registration will be done physically on Friday, April 5 and Saturday, April 6 at Bulawayo Athletics Club (BAC).

The participants will also be collecting their race packs during those two days at BAC.

“On our part, it is easier if people come early to register, particularly for planning purposes. It will enable us to organise a smooth race.
“With the huge numbers we are looking at, the race it could be smoother if runners register early,” Madanyika.

In the past, the event attracted over 3 000 athletes participating in different categories.

The 53km ultra-marathon starts inside the Matobo National Park and the course finishes at Bulawayo Athletic Club (BAC).
Just after Woolendale Road is where the 21.1km gets underway to end at BAC as well.

Tshabalala Sanctuary is the starting point for the 10km fun run with its conclusion being at BAC which is also the starting point as well as ending point for the 5 km race.

The marathon is one of the biggest races that attracts top athletes in the country.

Winners of the main event which will be the 53 km Ultra Marathon in both the men’s and women’s categories will get $US2000.
The rest of the prize breakdown will be availed in due course.

Prizes will be given in the rest of the categories to those who finish inside the top 10.

Registration fees are pegged at US$10 for the 5km and 10km races while participants have to part with US$20 for the 21km and 53km races.