Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
IT was another good day on the road for Blessing Waison and Fortunate Chidzivo after they emerged winners of this year’s CBZ Marathon yesterday at Old Georgians Sports Club.
Waison, from Cadence Athletics Club, romped to victory in 2 hours 18 minutes 48 seconds.
He was followed home by his training partner Godwin Katakura, also from Cadence club, with a time of 2 hours 20 minutes 39 seconds.
“Today’s race was tough because it was hilly. But I tried my best to win and also, we were in camp in Honde Valley last month, so we were prepared for the race,” said Waison.
Fresh from winning the Old Mutual Harare Marathon recently, Waison carried the momentum into yesterday’s event and took the lead just 9km into the race.
“It’s something exciting and encouraging because we have trainings and targets that we would be aiming for as athletes.
“When we win it boosts the confidence, even when we go to compete outside the country it’s a confident booster.”
Katakura was pleased with the outcome.
“The race was okay, the course was a bit hilly but because of the preparation we had, I did well.
“We were pushing each other, myself and Waison from the start . . . Teamwork is the best and it’s something positive for us,” said Katakura.
Nedbank’s Lyno Muchena came third in 2 hours 23 minutes 24 seconds.
Seasoned runner Chidzivo of Mr Pace Athletics Club emerged tops in the women’s category in 2 hours 48 minutes 22 seconds.
Just like Waison, it was her second victory this season.
Chidzivo and Waison pocketed US$1 000 each for their wins.
South Africa-based Nobuhle Nobukhosi Tshuma was second in the women’s category in 2 hours 51 minutes 23 seconds while Nevia Maganzo came third in 2 hours 54 minutes 37 seconds.
“It was an unexpectedly tough competition since Nobuhle joined the mix. We were not expecting that the competition was going to be that tough.
“But it also helped me to push . . . The Old Mutual I ran 2:50, and it was a flat course than this.
“This one was a tough course and we got lost at first. I think we ran extra 800m but still, I managed to run sub-2:50. So we thank God for her (Tshuma), being part of the mix,” said Chidzivo.
For the half marathon, Tatenda Hove of Black Rhinos and Caroline Mhandu of Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) were crowned winners of the men and women’s categories.
Hove crossed the finish line in 1 hour 9 minutes 43 seconds while Mhandu clocked 1 hour 18 minutes 56 seconds in the women’s section.
In the 21.1km wheelchair race Mollen Ali claimed the men’s title in 1 hour 4 minutes 16 seconds.
Stella Jongwe dominated the women’s category, winning the race in 1 hour 15 minutes 59 seconds.
CBZH chairman Luxon Zembe said the CBZ marathon is more than just a competition.
“Since the launch of our inaugural run in 2019, I am deeply honoured to witness the incredible impact this initiative has had on our community over the years.
“Through this initiative, we have been able to bring people together from all walks of life, that is athletes, families, corporate teams, and community leaders, united by a common goal: to promote a healthier, more active lifestyle while making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
“Thus, this year’s registration fees will be donated to a charitable cause through CBZ Foundation, a philanthropic arm of the Group,” said Zembe.
The race is organised by Harare Athletic Club.
