THIS year’s edition of the Simon Muzenda Memorial Gutu half-marathon which was set for October 25 has been moved to November 2 as more athletes have shown interest in participating, organisers have said.
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The half-marathon usually draws athletes from around the country. Masvingo Athletics Board chairman Titus Madzingo yesterday said the overwhelming response coupled with special request from participants caused the move.
“We have decided to move the half-marathon from October 25 to November 2 because many athletes have communicated with us saying they want to participate. However, many have requested that we shift the date so that they could get bus fare at the end of the month after getting paid. Therefore, we have decided to accommodate them,” he said.
Madzingo said judging by the number of phone calls he has received, they expected attendance to be even higher than last year.
“I have been receiving many calls as athletes and clubs want to find out if the competition is on this year. The main reason why the competition attracts so many athletes is because of the hospitality they receive here. We accommodate them from Friday even if the race is on Sunday,” he said.
Former champion Wirimai Juwawo, Michael Ngaaseke, George Majaji, Jonathan Chinyoka, Elijah Mabhunu, Constance Nyasango and veteran Samukeliso Moyo are some of the athletes who usually take part in such competitions.
Winners of the main race in both male and female categories will pocket $2 500, runners-up $2 000 with the third-placed up to 10th-placed athlete’s also expected to receive prize money.
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In the juniors’ category (10km) the winner will pocket $500 and the second-placed athlete $450. A 10km race and a fun run for the Under-13s have been lined up.
