Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
WHAT was meant to be a landmark event for Highlanders Athletics Club (HAC) turned sour after the club’s inaugural half-marathon was hit by a series of organisational blunders, including a major route error that cut the 21km race short by five kilometres.
The biggest mishap came when runners were misdirected, forcing them to complete only 16km instead of the full distance. At the finish line, frustration boiled over as athletes expressed outrage over the mix-up and other logistical flaws.
Bulawayo Athletics Board (BAB) chairperson Watson Madanyika explained what went wrong.
“The driver of the lead vehicle turned at a wrong turning point where there was a water point. He was supposed to drive further to the correct turning point, which is the 10,5km peg. So they would run back the other 10,5km to make it 21km. As Bulawayo Athletics Board, we apologise for the unfortunate event.
“We also thank the Bulawayo community for coming in their numbers to support despite the unfortunate happenings,” said Madanyika.
HAC secretary Ngqwele Dube also accepted responsibility.
“Unfortunately there were some hiccups. The driver made a U-turn at a wrong point. It’s one of the major hiccups we had. Next year we expect something bigger and better. We have to start preparations for the event now so we avoid glitches next year,” said Dube.
Athletes also raised concerns about the shortage of water points and the lack of basic refreshments such as oranges and bananas.
Fit and Furious athlete George Mukombwe did not mince his words.
“It’s really disappointing. It’s a clear sign of poor organisation and it’s unacceptable for a race which had a US$15 registration fee.
Another runner added,
“We can’t have top athletes and clubs who take part in major races coming to compete in a poorly organised event like this one. We were promised prizes, they are not there. And imagine a whole race with no fruit, honestly?”
Despite the confusion, the shortened 16km race was eventually completed. Thabo Mapfumo crossed the line first in 56 minutes 28 seconds, followed by Israel Mudimba in 58:27, and Simbarashe Chikadaga in 59 minutes flat.
In the women’s category, Phillipa Dube claimed victory in 1:14:38, narrowly edging out Anne Chirisa, who posted the same time. Thokozani Dube finished third in 1:16:22.
