Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE’S middle and long-distance runners are gearing up for a demanding new season, fresh from a successful track and field campaign that produced World Championships qualifiers. Their 2026 journey begins on January 10 at the World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida. Before dreaming of Florida, however, athletes must endure a punishing two-month schedule. They will battle through club, provincial and inter provincial competitions, chasing fast times and proving themselves worthy of national selection.
The rise of Southern African athletics has raised the stakes. Botswana, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe now form a quartet attracting global attention, thanks to standout sprint performances in 2025.
For Zimbabwe’s distance specialists, the spotlight is shifting their way. National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe competitions boss, Manuel Mpofu, confirmed that the cross-country season is underway. He said provinces are already preparing for the inter provincials in Bindura on November 22, which will serve as the key selection event. “These trials are where discipline meets dreams. We’re looking for athletes who can read the course, respond to pace changes and finish with authority. Strong performances in Bindura will form the backbone of Team Zimbabwe for Tallahassee,” said Mpofu.
This year’s programme will broaden the field. Alongside seniors and Under-20s, age groups stretching from Under-12s to masters will compete. The inclusion of primary school athletes, Mpofu said, highlights the country’s pipeline.
“From Under-12s to seniors and masters, the programme shows our pipeline in action. We expect competitive racing and smart tactics across every category,” he said.
Provincial competitions are set to begin shortly, with the national finals in Bindura expected to draw the best from across the country.
Zimbabwe’s proud cross-country tradition includes past champions such as the late Zephaniah Ncube and Thethelani Moyo, whose legacies remain an inspiration for today’s runners.
Bongani Ndlovu