By Panashe Karidzagundi
BEITBRIDGE came alive last Sunday, as more than 90 local athletes gathered for the Running Is Our Therapy (RIOT) Marathon, a community-driven event promoting health, fitness, and social unity.
Speaking during the awards ceremony, Town Clerk Loud Ramakgapola applauded the organisers for their efforts in bringing the community together through sport.
Ramakgapola used the occasion to officially announce the upcoming Mayor’s Half Marathon, scheduled for June 6, 2026.
“As the Town Council, we would like to thank RIOT for organising such a marathon. We also want to form a club for Beitbridge runners,” said Ramakgapola.
“Before the Mayor’s Half Marathon, we will kick-start a clean-up campaign on June 5, 2026,” he said
In a show of support for local athletes, Ramakgapola contributed $20 each to the four participants who completed the gruelling 42km race, saying they should register for the upcoming Mayor’s Marathon.
Additionally, local partner to RIOT, Mr. Mwedzi Mutsa awarded $20 each to the winners of the 10km men’s and women’s categories.
National Athletics referee Langelihle Ndlovu, herself a product of the RIOT initiative, expressed gratitude for the platform the marathon has provided.
“I am proud to be a product of RIOT and a member of this movement,” she said.
Ndlovu also said she is preparing for an upcoming 89km Marathon set for June.
The marathon featured multiple race categories, with winners receiving medals in recognition of their performances.
In the 5km women’s category, Emelda Rwezuva came first, followed by Catherine Murena in second. Andreas Mukono of ZimBorders took top honours in the men’s 5km race, with Benjamin Chamadenga finishing second.
The 10km race saw Langelihle Ndlovu securing first place in the women’s category, ahead of Nompilo Dube and Nobuhle Mutambwa. In the men’s division, Tinevimbo Chisandure finished first, followed by Junior Mhlanga and Honest Chauke.
Gillian Majaya of RIOT dominated the women’s 21km race, with Vimbai Zanamwe and Winnie Matura taking second and third positions respectively.
Ndino Chitakira led the men’s 21km category, followed by Frika Shoko and Emmanuel Mandeya.
In the demanding 42km race, Mabutho from RIOT crossed the line first. He was followed by Tawanda Xavier Zava of ZimBorders and RIOT, Shava of ZIMRA, and Renias Zvarevasha of Beitbridge Town Council.
The event also celebrated veteran runners aged over 50, including Veronica Zuze, Kennedy Mazvito, Junel Mhlanga, Josephat Mugova, Irene Chipfakanya, Silver Nyoni, and Stella Dokotera, showcasing inclusivity across all age groups.
The RIOT Marathon continues to grow as a key community event in Beitbridge, blending sport, wellness, and social impact, while setting the stage for even bigger races ahead.