Online Reporter
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
THE annual Tanganda Half Marathon is, not only living up to its mandate of promoting long-distance running excellence, but is also fast establishing itself as a benchmark for sports tourism.
This year’s edition drew 20 participants from Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zambia — a significant rise from last year’s 12th edition, which featured just six foreign athletes.
Manicaland Athletics Board secretary-general, Braid Nhubu, who also serves as the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (NAAZ) juniors head coach, applauded the event’s growing ability to attract international competitors, describing it as clear evidence of its rising stature on the regional athletics calendar.
“This year, the Tanganda Half Marathon had a total of 2 000 participants who registered. Others missed the target registration period and failed to participate.
“The event attracted a multitude more than expected. It surpassed the expected population. As one of the best organised half marathons, Tanganda Half Marathon has grown too big, and more exciting from year to year, with this year’s edition attracting more than 20 foreign athletes from Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia and Zambia. This is commendable,” said Nhubu. The event was also graced by Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Misheck Mugadza, who participated in the 5km race and performed very well.
The organisers did well to maintain standards in ensuring the presence of medical care offering massage, Zumba session, TD and Mascots that left attendees reluctant to leave even after the event had ended.
Nhubu said: “People really enjoyed every bit of the event, and we had gregarious moments of life. Many are already looking forward to next year’s edition barely a week after the 2026 race.”
In the 21km Open Race men’s category, Godwin Katakura scooped pole position after completing the race in one hour, two minutes and 52 seconds ahead of Moses Tarakinyu who finished the race in one hour, three minutes and 27 seconds.
Kenyan, Hillary Kibetchirehiv was third after crossing the finishing line in one hour, three minutes and 32 seconds.
Fellow Kenyan, Isaac Lancart was in fourth position after crossing the finishing line exactly 59 seconds behind his compatriot.
In the women’s category, Sylvia Kwambaya was the winner after finishing the race in one minute, 15 minutes and 16 seconds, while second placed Mercy Chemutai completed the race in one hour, 15 minutes and 37 seconds.
Fortunate Chidzivo came third after completing the race in one hour, 16 minutes and 22 seconds.
