The 2025 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon – held in the resort town over the weekend – attracted more than 5,200 runners from 40 countries across the world, underlining its role as a key driver for Zimbabwe as a world-class, sporting tourism destination.Participants from as far afield as Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Australia, Kenya and South Africa converged on the resort town – which attained city status in 2020 – for the annual race, held against the backdrop of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.For many – such as returning French runner Marie Dubois – the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon has become an annual pilgrimage.“This is my third time running here, and every year I’m blown away by the hospitality, the organisation, and the unforgettable magic of this place,” she said.A spokesperson for a UK-based team of runners fundraising for Play it Forward, a charity that uses football to uplift vulnerable children in Zambia, said they were using the goodwill generated by the Marathon to mobilize support for worthy causes.“The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon has become a beacon of global goodwill. We are using this platform to raise awareness and support for programmes focused on education, health and gender equality,” a company spokesperson said.Kenya’s long distance runner Rosina Kiboina, who won the female veterans’ full marathon in a time of 2 hours, 57 minutes and 6 seconds, commended the positive energy around the Marathon.“The atmosphere here is different. You can feel the energy of the Falls and the people pushing you forward,” said Kiboina.Kiboina competed in veterans’ marathon category — reserved for runners aged between 40 to 49 years. She remarkably secured fifth place in the overall women’s 42km marathon, earning widespread praise for her endurance and humility.Meanwhile, the marathon brought a significant boost to the local economy, with hotels, lodges, and restaurants operating at full capacity and local shops and vendors reporting brisk business throughout the weekend.Victoria Falls Mayor, Councillor Prince Moyo, lauded the event’s positive impact on the tourism sector.“This marathon is now a fixture on the global athletics calendar. It strengthens our brand as a must-visit destination while creating jobs and business opportunities for our residents,” he said, speaking soon after the marathon on Sunday.“Victoria Falls has buzzed with energy this week as over 5,000 runners from more than 40 countries joined us for this iconic event.“Your participation has showcased our world-class talent and highlighted our wildlife, adventure, hospitality and cultural treasures, delivering a vital boost to our local tourism businesses,” said the Mayor of the host city.
