Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya Beitbridge Bureau
Zimbabwean athletes dominated the Zimbabwe-South Africa Two Countries Marathon held on Saturday, scooping top honours in the flagship 42km race.
Annie Chirisa of ZRP Bulawayo won the women’s category in the 42km race, while Israel Mudimba of Blanket Mine won the men’s category in the same distance.
The marathon, which was held on a changed route this year, started in Musina and ended at Dulibadzimu Stadium in Beitbridge.
In previous editions, the race would start in Beitbridge and end in Musina, South Africa.
The race is jointly hosted by Beitbridge Municipality and Musina Municipality together with partners as part of their twinning agreement.
It was held under the theme “Two Nations, One Race, One Vision” and featured four categories 5km, 10km, 21km and 42km.
Scores of athletes from both Zimbabwe and South Africa took part in the cross-border showcase that is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations, promoting sport tourism and fostering community integration between the two border towns.
Zimbabwean runners showed dominance in most categories, with Chirisa and Mudimba leading the charge in the full marathon.
Officials from both municipalities described this year’s edition as a success, citing improved organization and increased participation compared to previous years.
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe is set to officiate at the event on the Zimbabwean side.
Organisers said the marathon continues to grow as a symbol of unity and cooperation between the two neighbouring towns, which share historical, cultural and economic ties.
The two municipalities said they will continue to work together to make the marathon bigger and more competitive in the coming years.
Temba Dube