Lovemore Dube
THE inaugural Kings Half Marathon gets underway in Bulawayo on Saturday morning, with organisers and athletics stakeholders declaring themselves ready for the event.
Bulawayo Athletics Board chairperson Watson Madanyika confirmed the readiness of organisers, sponsors and the athletics community when he visited a city centre shop where runners were collecting their race bibs and T-shirts.
Among those spotted at the collection point were top athletes, including race favourite Moses Tarakinyu, who recently finished third at the Nelson Mandela Marathon in South Africa.
“As Bulawayo Athletics Board we are now ready for the marathon,” declared Madanyika.
He said the race had attracted athletes from across the country, including internationally experienced runners Phillipa Chidzvivo and Isaac Mpofu, whose marathon record was broken a fortnight ago by Godwin Katakura.
“We are having athletes from as far as Harare, athletes from Mutare, athletes from Matabeleland South, the whole of Zimbabwe is represented, we would like to thank the Kings Half Marathon sponsors and organisers for a job well done,” said Madanyika as sponsors prepared race packs for participants.
Tarakinyu is anticipating a competitive race and believes he could improve on his personal best of one hour, one minute and 38 seconds.
“They must tighten their boots for the race. It is going to be fireworks, watch out,” warned Tarakinyu.
Adino Mutambara, 45, will also compete in the 21.1km race and is aiming to finish first. His previous best time over the distance is one hour, 10 minutes.
The half marathon will start and finish at Smokehouse, with organisers offering prizes to reward top performers.
Water points have been set up along the route, taking into account the heatwave affecting the country.
Preparations have progressed smoothly, with route signage expected to be installed overnight ahead of Saturday’s race.
Fitness enthusiasts will also have the option of competing in 5km and 10km road races. The event will conclude with a Zumba session, while DJs will provide entertainment for participants and spectators.
