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Raymond Jaravaza
IT will be a first in the local athletics scene — athletes running a marathon from their respective countries instead of competing on the same course in one location.
For the first time since its inception 14 years ago, the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon will be held virtually on 13 December due to movement restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic.
And the organisers are working round the clock to ‘‘host’’ a seamless virtual marathon.
The annual event, which draws thousands of local and international participants, is traditionally scheduled for July but its organisers were forced to postpone the race to December following travel restrictions and national lockdowns across the world to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
This year, despite the travel restrictions and social distancing measures now observed globally, athletes will take part in the marathon virtually.
Athletes will be required to register and run the marathon from any country in the world.
“Although we couldn’t hold the event physically in July, we have decided to hold it virtually — through a world-renowned App called SportSplits — so that participants can run from anywhere across the world,” said the organisers in a statement.
Now considered among Africa’s top marathons, the event comprises a full marathon of 42 kilometres, a 21km half-marathon and the 7,5km fun run.
Last year the event attracted over 3 500 participants from 60 countries across the world.
“We are encouraging participants to register, practice and track their activities with the SportSplits App so that they are ready for the competition in three months’ time.”
Ten percent of the proceeds from the marathon will be donated towards wildlife conservation.
In a virtual marathon, athletes register and pay the requisite fee for their preferred distance and run the marathon on the set date along their own chosen route within a specified time.
The athletes record the finishing time and upload it on the race website and get certificates of participation.
Online Reporter