daniel chigunwe
Trust Khosa
Renowned choreographer John Cole and fitness guru Zororai “Zorro” Nhira will lead athletes through invigorating Zumba sessions on February 2 at the Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton.
Due to overwhelming demand, the dynamic duo, included in the lineup, is set to bring an exciting twist to this year’s Oliver Mtukudzi Half Marathon.
Marathon director Sylvia Sanyanga confirmed their participation in the event, which is expected to attract a diverse crowd of runners from all walks of life.
“Preparations are well underway as we mentioned earlier. We will also hold Zumba classes on Sunday to ensure that athletes have variety and get real value for their money.
“We will be having two Zumba sessions, one led by Zorro and another by John Cole. This is meant to give fans variety at the annual event now in its fourth edition,” she said.
Sanyanga stressed that registration was still underway, with various teams and individuals eager to participate.
“We are looking forward to a larger number of runners this year compared to last year.
“It’s quite encouraging that teams and corporations have registered many runners. All this is meant to celebrate the life of Dr Mtukudzi, who lost his battle against diabetes complications six years ago,” she said.
The marathon director assured attendees that this year’s edition would focus on diabetes awareness.
“As we mentioned, we are also going to utilise the platform to raise awareness about diabetes.This is one subject that Dr. Mtukudzi used to educate people on. Besides being a diabetes patient, he took the time to raise awareness about the disease.”
Tuku died on January 23, 2019, aged 66.
He was declared a national hero, but his family opted to have the crooner buried at his Madziwa homestead in Mashonaland Central province.
Six years after his death, festivities to honour him are being held as a way of remembering the departed crooner.
The Oliver Mtukudzi Half Marathon is one of the major events on the showbiz calendar to commemorate Tuku’s legacy.
Recognised by the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (NAAZ), the annual event is known for attracting both professional runners and amateurs.
There will be three races where runners will be spoiled for choice, ranging from 5 km, 10 km, to 21.1 km.
The event starts at 5 am, and all the races will start and finish at Pakare Paye. After the races, participants will receive medals and refreshments, while Zumba lovers will be taken through their paces by Zorro and Cole.
Last year, over 500 athletes reportedly attended the event at the Pakare Paye Arts Centre. Top entertainers, comprising Jah Prayzah, Ashton “Mbeu” Nyahora, and Andy Muridzo, have since endorsed the 2025 event.
Jah Prayzah, who was mentored by Tuku, shared a promotional video endorsing the forthcoming event.
A family friend, Jah Prayzah is one of the high-profile figures supporting Tuku Music Pvt Limited’s initiatives at Pakare Paye Arts Centre.
On Christmas Day last year, he performed at Pakare Paye.
Tuku was praised for mentoring several artists at his arts centre, which boasts a large stage, recording, and rehearsal studios. The canter is also famous for hosting festivals and other events.
It’s a one-stop centre with culinary services, art studios, lodges, and large halls for major events. True to the late Tuku’s wish, his centre has changed many lives that passed through his great tutelage.
Some of his protégés include Mbeu, Munya Mataruse, Watson Chidzomba Junior, Gary Tight, Innocent “Sarungano” Kufakunesu, and Eugene Museredza, who are shining years after receiving Tuku’s mentorship.
Meanwhile, the Black Spirits Band, Tuku’s protégés and friends, are set to perform at the event this Sunday in what will culminate in a grand celebration of athletics, music, and Zumba.
Tuku’s regalia and music will also be auctioned at the event, set to put Norton under the spotlight once again.
Online Reporter
