mbulelo smpofu
Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
BULAWAYO Athletics Board (Bab) chairman Watson Madanyika has issued a rallying call to athletes to participate in large numbers in the second Cross-Country Championship Qualifier set for Nketa Drive Park in Mpopoma on Saturday.
Madanyika expressed optimism about the upcoming event.
“We have been working tirelessly to ensure everything is in place for a memorable event. From course preparation to logistics and security, we are confident we have covered all bases,” he said.
The first qualifier, held at the same venue a fortnight ago, drew nearly 40 athletes and Bab is looking forward to increasing the numbers.
Madanyika highlighted the opportunity to showcase Bulawayo’s rich athletic talent.
“We have a strong pool of athletes in Bulawayo, and we are eager to see them take part in this event and if they do well and go on to represent the city at the inter-provincial championships,” said Madanyika.
The event on Saturday serves as a qualifier for the prestigious Inter-Provincial Cross-Country Championships, scheduled for February 22 at the Harare Botanical Gardens.
Freedom Banda took top honours in the senior men’s 12km race at the first championship, finishing in exactly 34 minutes. Denford Mlilo followed closely, securing second place with a time of 35 minutes and 17.64 seconds.
Thabo Mapfumo rounded out the top three, finishing in 38 minutes and 38.53 seconds.
In the senior women’s 10km race, Lesedi Nkomo took the top spot, completing the race in 49 minutes and 29.20 seconds. Notably, only two participants took part in this category, with the other contestants failing to finish the race.
Zinhle Vundla emerged victorious in the 6km men’s race, finishing in 34 minutes and 04.31 seconds.
Mike Sithole and Benevolence Matiba secured second and third place, respectively. Grace Mudoni won the ladies’ 6km race, completing the course in an impressive 27 minutes and 03.28 seconds.
Meanwhile, Bab will launch its 2025 track and field events programme with a meet on February 8 at White City Stadium.
Athletes are invited to participate, with entry fees ranging from US$2 to US$5 per event or relay team.
