Harare, Zimbabwe | Manicaland’s breathtaking Honde Valley will soon come alive with runners from across the country as the second edition of the NetOne-Auburn Honde Valley Marathon takes off on 23 October.
With an array of cash prizes up for grabs, the event is part of an ongoing effort to promote domestic tourism while showcasing the region’s natural beauty.
The marathon, organized by Auburn Fitness Club and supported by key sponsors like NetOne, will feature a variety of race categories, including the 42km full marathon, 21km, 10km, and a 5km race.
Participants in the 42km race will vie for top honors, with the first-place winner set to receive US$700, while cash prizes of US$500, US$300, and US$100 will be awarded to the second to fifth-placed runners.
Runners in the 21km race will also be eligible for cash prizes, and all participants, including those in the veteran category, will walk away with medals.
“We are excited to host this event for the second time and expect it to be bigger and better,” said Andrew Rusike, a board member of Auburn Fitness Club and director of Andish Consultancy. The marathon, set against the stunning backdrop of Honde Valley, aims to promote both fitness and tourism.
Brenda Zvinorova, an Auburn trustee with a passion for health and fitness, announced that all runners from the 5km to 42km categories will receive gold medals for completing the race.
Alois Bunjira, former Caps United star and founder of Auburn Fitness, noted that the event had surpassed expectations in its first year. “Last year, we expected about 100 participants but ended up with 356 runners. This year, we are aiming for double that number, and with the support of our sponsors, we are confident this will be a landmark event for Honde Valley.”
Bunjira also provided details about the event’s schedule, saying, “The marathon will start at 6 AM, and hopefully the event finishes at 4 PM. We’ll have an entertainment bash in the evening for those who want to let loose and not travel back to their various destinations on the same day.”
The marathon’s sponsors include First Mutual, Nepro Air, NetOne, LM Auctioneers, 4-May, Sweat Field Fitness, Eastern Highlands, Palmer Lodges, Humphrey Lodges, and Centurion Pub and Grill.
Aside from the race itself, a business exhibition will take place at the finish line, offering local companies a platform to showcase their products and services. The marathon’s sponsors, including NetOne and DripTech have added an extra layer of excitement with various prize draws.
Notably, DripTech will be donating a 5,000-liter water tank to Gatsi Old People’s Home, along with an irrigation system, as part of the event’s community-driven efforts.
For those traveling from Harare, CAG Travellers Coaches will provide two buses that will provide free transport on the eve of the marathon, ensuring runners can arrive comfortably in Honde Valley for the early morning start.
“Apart from providing two buses for travel to and from Honde Valley for free, CAG will be launching a scholarship fund during the event where they will give 10 scholarships to 10 students every year,” Bunjira added.
Registration for the marathon is currently open and will close 10 days before the event.
“We want this marathon to leave a lasting legacy in Honde Valley, not just as a race but as a community event that promotes tourism, business, and social good,” Bunjira said.
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