Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
BLACK Rhinos runner Wellington Varevi clinched his fifth consecutive ZITF Coca-Cola Four-Minute Mile Challenge title on Saturday afternoon, beating a field of 30 athletes in a commanding display at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair grounds.
Varevi stopped the clock at four minutes 17,07 seconds to extend his dominance in the popular race. He bettered his time from last year which was four minutes 20,81.
Peter Tauzeni came in second after posting a time of four minutes 18,87 seconds, while Blessmore Chidziva finished third in four minutes 19,54 seconds.
The victory cements Varevi’s status as the man to beat in the annual challenge, as he continues to set the pace in one of the ZITF’s flagship athletics events.
An elated Varevi said consistency and discipline had been key to his success over the years.
“I am very happy to win this race again. It’s not easy to keep coming back and defending the title, but I have worked hard in training and remained focused,” said Varevi.
“This event means a lot to me. Each year the competition gets tougher, but I always push myself to give my best. Winning it five times in a row is something I am really proud of.”
Beyond the elite competition, the Coca-Cola Four-Minute Mile event once again lived up to its billing as a celebration of community, drawing participants from different walks of life in a vibrant atmosphere.
The event reflected The Coca-Cola Company’s enduring commitment to promoting active, balanced lifestyles while creating inclusive platforms that bring people together. From seasoned runners to families and first-time participants, the race embodied the spirit of community engagement and well-being.
Speaking during the event, Delta Sparkling Beverages marketing manager Claybough Mapfumo highlighted the broader significance of the initiative.
“The Coca-Cola Four-Minute Mile event is more than a run, it is a celebration of community, energy and shared experiences. It aligns with our commitment to creating moments of connection while supporting active and balanced lifestyles,” said Mapfumo.
Meanwhile, Watson Madanyika, chairman of the Bulawayo Athletics Board, praised the role played by sponsors in ensuring the continued success of the event.
“We are grateful to our sponsors, particularly Coca-Cola, for their unwavering support. Events like these would not be possible without such partnerships,” said Madanyika.
“The sponsorship has helped us grow this race into one of the most anticipated events on the athletics calendar. It also gives our athletes a platform to showcase their talent and compete at a high level.”
Madanyika added that the collaboration between athletics stakeholders and the corporate world was key to developing the sport at grassroots and elite levels.
The event also formed part of the broader ZITF platform, reinforcing the importance of partnerships in driving positive social impact alongside economic development.
