Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga-Zimpapers Sports Hub
MOSES Tarakinyu yesterday underlined his status as one of the leading distance runners in the country when he emerged top in the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service Commissioner General’s Goodwill Trust Fund Harare Metropolitan Province half marathon at Chikurubi Damview Resort.
Tarakinyu of Black Rhinos Athletics Club crossed the line in 1 hour 6 minutes 22 seconds to win the race ahead of Andrew Dick and Owen Slowly.
Dick from Kudadisa Club came second in 1 hour 6 minutes 40 seconds and ZRP’s Slowly was third in 1 hour 8 minutes 53 seconds.
ZPCS’ Caroline Mhandu lived up to expectations when she claimed the title in the women’s category in 1 hour 20 minutes 9 seconds.
It was a close race with Miriam Sibanda of Mr Pace on second position with a time of 1 hour 20 minutes 11 seconds. Seasoned runner Ethel Pangiso came in on third place in 1 hour 26 minutes 3 seconds.
For their efforts Tarakinyu and Mhandu received $500 each.
The Commissioner General’s Goodwill Trust Fund is aimed at assisting children and spouses of deceased correctional officers and other vulnerable members of the community.
As part of efforts to raise funds, provinces hold different fundraising activities and Harare province held the half marathon yesterday.
In a speech read on his behalf by deputy Commissioner General Granisia Musango, ZPCS Commissioner General Moses Chihobvu said: “Events such as this, are not merely athletic in nature, but they are a testimony to the Service’s shared commitment to community development, charity and national development.
“They reflect the spirit of unity and the impact of purposeful action. Since its inception a decade ago, the Commissioner-General’s Goodwill Trust Fund has continued to make a significant impact and has supported the Government in making sure that every child has access to basic education, by offering vital support to vulnerable members within and outside the service such as orphans.”
The half marathon was the main race of the day, but in other races, Black Rhinos’ Wellington Varevi won the men’s 10km in 30 minutes 37.18 seconds.
Melody Kaseke of ZRP was the first to cross the finish line in the women’s section in 33 minutes 00.86 seconds.
Munyaradzi Katiyo won the 10km wheelchair race in 28 minutes 20.95 seconds in the men’s section and Stella Jongwe emerged tops in the women’s race in 29 minutes 36.12 seconds.
There was also a 5km race and 1km fun run on offer.
