MATABELELAND South middle-distance runner Nkosiyazi Sibanda hit the tap first to win the inaugural Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo half-marathon in Bulawayo yesterday morning.
RONALD MOYO SPORTS REPORTER
Sibanda grabbed the $500 first prize in the male category after getting the better of Wirimayi Zhuwawo in the last 500 metres of the race setting a record time of one hour five minutes 42secs for the new competition.
The Blanket Mine middle-distance runner came to the race oozing with confidence after retaining the Econet 42km Victoria Falls marathon title in July before clinching the Two Countries half-marathon in South Africa.
“I am happy winning this first marathon set to celebrate the life of an iconic figure. It came at the right time because as athletes we are starved of such events,” Sibanda said.
Zhuwawo, for coming second, got $350. Elijah Mabhunu got $250 for coming third. Kelvin Pangiso pocketed $150 after coming fourth and Ngonidzashe Ncube got $100 for coming fifth.
In the women’s category, Olivia Chitate of ZRP Harare walked away $500 richer after leading the pack through the course to romp home in one hour 23mins 35secs.
Faith Masango who came second in the women’s category romping home in one hour 25mins 21secs got $350. For coming third Hellen Chiundo got $250 while the fourth-placed Annie Chirise pocketed $150 and Philipa Chivore, fifth, got $100 for her efforts.
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In the wheelchair men’s category, Elford Moyo beat the only other competitor Samson Muroyiwa completing the 21km in one hour 1min 3secs.
For winning the race Moyo walked away $200 richer while Muroyiwa got $150 for coming second. Margaret Bangajena won the women’s wheelchair category and walked away with $200 while Thandiwe Ndlovu pocketed $150 for coming second.
