Only Those Who Know.
LONG-distance runners Isaac Mpofu and Chiedza Chikore won this year’s edition of the Binga Kasambabezi Half-Marathon yesterday.
Mpofu successfully defended his hold on the gold in the event when he hit the finishing line in 1 hour 08 minutes and 16 seconds. Running for the Zimbabwe Republic Police team, Mpofu is known for his constant strides. He managed to maintain a comfortable lead from the 10-kilometre mark, increasing the gap till the end.
He was followed by team mate Elijah Mabhunu in 1 hour 10 minutes and 48 seconds. Age defying Kelvin Pangiso, who has run in as many marathons in his lifetime, finished third in 1 hour 10 minutes and 57 seconds. Pangiso turns out for the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services team.
In the women’s category of the 21km, Chikore of Black Rhinos Athletics Club won in 1 hour 35 minutes and 40 seconds. Another regular at local races, Rudo Monderwa was second in 1 hour 35 minutes 57 seconds. Blanket Mine runner Annie Chirisa went home with the bronze medal in 1 hour 38 minutes and 15 seconds.
The three women are arguably counted among the most consistent marathon participants, who have amassed as many medals in their careers. This time around, there were only two women wheelchair racers. Ratidzo Tomu of Zvishavane Paraplegic Athletics Club who edged Irene Moyo of Bulawayo-based Qhubeka Paraplegic Club for the second position. On his victory, Mpofu said he had prepared well and went to the race confident of winning.
“It is always good to defend a race. It means consistency at the same time it places me in a position where I have to introspect and check if I have improved or not. The Binga race is tough. Ask any athlete they will tell you, this is one of the toughest races,” said Mpofu.
Tomu who hails from the Midlands town of Zvishavane implored fellow women to participate in the future.
“Another medal, another victory. I am glad I did it but I want to encourage other ladies to join athletics. I notice every time that there is usually a few of us who run marathons,” she said.
This was the sixth edition of the Binga Kasambabezi Half-Marathon and it was supported by sponsors by AFC Holdings, International Fund for Animal Welfare, Zimparks, World Wildlife Fund, International Anti-poaching Foundation and other local business stakeholders.
Chairperson of the race’s organisers, Recent Ncube said they were grateful to the participants who made time to grace the event.
“It was another successful event. We remain grateful to the athletes for their support. It is our hope that we did well for them as they shape their careers for the best,” said Ncube.