Beitbridge half marathon attracts 160 runners

ABOUT 160 athletes have registered for this year’s Beitbridge Mayor’s Anti-Litter Half Marathon that will be held in the border town tomorrow morning.

The race will be held under the theme “Beitbridge against Litter”.

Beitbridge Town Council spokesperson Raniel Ndou yesterday said there will be a 21.1km road race that will start at Lutumba Business Centre and end at Border Service Station.

He said there will also be a 12km race and a 5km power walk that start at Chicago Business Centre and Masvingo turn off respectively.

“Registration is still open and we are calling for more people to take part in this initiative as we seek to maintain a clean and safe environment in the town.

“We have mobilised a lot of prizes to be won and also lined up a number of entertainment activities for both children and adults on the day,” said Ndou. He said the race will have four categories, juniors (16-20 years), seniors (21-39 years), veterans (40-49 years) and masters (50 years and above). He said the race was aimed at raising awareness on littering around the town and on major highways. The level of littering around the town, Ndou said, was worrying, hence the need to bring together stakeholders from the town to deal with problem. “We have invited pupils from local secondary schools to also participate in the races. Beitbridge is the preface to the country and it is important for us to present a clean environment and good picture to visitors coming in from South Africa,” he said. He said those still interested in taking part in the race can contact the Beitbridge Town Council before 6AM tomorrow.