Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu recently in Harare
THE Zimazing Race, an exhilarating fitness and entertainment event inspired by the hit American reality series The Amazing Race, successfully launched its inaugural Harare edition on Saturday at The Forest at ART Farm. Now in its fourth year and traditionally held in Bulawayo, this popular competition — sponsored by First Mutual Health — attracted an impressive 73 teams, marking a significant milestone.
The winners of the Harare edition were Team Chemonics, comprising Tafataona Mativenga (Team Leader), Strive Simo, Sarah Chikomo, and Tirivashoma Dube. The team expressed their delight at being crowned the first-ever Harare champions, walking away with a prize of US$1 000.
“The excitement of winning this race when we least expected it, navigating the challenges in ways we never anticipated, and above all, being part of such an amazing and well-attended event is just something else,” said Mativenga. He emphasised the importance of embracing the experience rather than focusing solely on victory.
“For would-be racers, I’d say just go and enjoy the adventure. The exercise and fun far outweigh the prize money. Completing the course requires resilience, teamwork, coordination, focus, and quick thinking. It’s important to have a mix of abilities in your team — not just a group of marathon runners.”
This year marked only the second time prize money was awarded, with Team Group Therapy from Bulawayo being the first recipients last year.
Mandipa Mashingaidze, the race organiser, noted that this year’s competition was the biggest and best yet, thanks in large part to the strong participation of corporate teams.
“What impressed me most about the Harare edition was the engagement of corporate teams. It was fantastic to see so many companies — especially partners and subsidiaries of First Mutual Health—using the event for team building and networking,” Mashingaidze remarked. She found it particularly inspiring to see smaller businesses with limited resources embracing the race as an affordable and meaningful alternative to traditional team-building retreats.
“It’s exciting to see how different regions embrace the challenge in unique ways, which really highlights its versatility.”
Mashingaidze also observed that the Zimazing Race has evolved into more of a social event, with many teams made up of friends and families. “That community-driven energy is just as powerful and valuable, creating space for connection and fun,” she said.
As is tradition, the Zimazing Race featured teams of four tackling a series of challenges and puzzles across the city. This year’s edition introduced a variety of new activities and props designed to heighten the excitement and sense of adventure. Participants faced 10 diverse challenges that tested both physical endurance and mental agility—from deciphering cryptic clues to navigating obstacle courses—creating a festive atmosphere that encouraged community engagement and support for local businesses.
The expansion to Harare not only broadens the Zimazing Race’s reach but also celebrates Zimbabwe’s vibrant culture. “The goal has always been to celebrate Zimbabwe and her people. By adding Harare, we’re encouraging more Zimbabweans to appreciate and celebrate their surroundings,” said Mashingaidze.
While the move to Harare brought new logistical challenges, it also ushered in a wave of fresh excitement and opportunity. “Harare is a whole new landscape for us, and while that comes with its own set of challenges, it’s also what makes this next chapter so thrilling,” she said.
The event’s growing momentum is further bolstered by partnerships with organisations like First Mutual Health, which underscore the Zimazing Race’s expanding potential. “With partners coming on board in such a big way, the possibilities for what this competition can offer are truly endless,” she said.
The success of the Harare edition sets the stage for future growth, with organisers optimistic about expanding even further. “We’re thrilled with how this year’s race turned out, and we look forward to building on this success in the years to come,” Mashingaidze concluded.
With its roots firmly planted in Zimbabwean culture, the Zimazing Race continues to offer more than just entertainment — it fosters meaningful connections among participants, businesses, and the wider community. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
