Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Sunday News Reporter
THE resort City of Victoria Falls was yesterday abuzz with activity as a record-breaking field of over 6 000 participants from more than 44 countries prepares to take part in the 2026 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon today.
The biggest marathon in the country has transformed Victoria Falls into a vibrant hub of international sport and tourism, with the full 42.2km marathon, 21.1km half marathon, family fun run, relay and categories for those with disabilities all set to grace the scenic route.
Saturday witnessed a hive of activity as participants flocked to the registration venue at a hotel in Victoria Falls to collect their race packs.
Simultaneously, organisers and exhibitors were putting the final touches on the main venue at Baobab Primary School, which serves as the race venue.
Race Director Brent Williams confirmed that it is all systems go for the flagship event.
“We have got just over 6 000 people entered this year. So, it’s a 14 percent increment on last year,” said Williams.
“The state of preparedness, everything is coming together. And we don’t anticipate having any issues.”
Williams said there has been meticulous planning that has gone into ensuring participant safety and comfort, revealing that logistical arrangements have been finalised.
“We have got toilets at all the water points. That’s just arrived from Bulawayo. National Parks rangers, anti-poaching unit rangers in the bushes to make sure that we keep the runners safe,” he said.
“All the water tables have their goods, all the water and coke and everything. And basically the balls are rolling.”
The race director also emphasised the growing international appeal of the event, noting that while Zimbabweans form the bulk of entries, the field is remarkably diverse.
“The biggest field in terms of entries is obviously the Zimbabweans. There is a substantial amount of South Africans, but we have got over 44 different nationalities that are going to be running this year,” Williams confirmed.
The international flavour of the event was evident at the registration venue, where runners from across the globe expressed their excitement after collecting their race packs.
Victoria Falls City hotels and guesthouses reported full occupancy.
The marathon has become a major driver of sports tourism for Zimbabwe, with the scenic route offering runners breath-taking views of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
The event, which started in 2006 with fewer than 300 participants, has grown exponentially, cementing its place as one of Africa’s premier destination marathons.
