HARARE, Apr. 27 (NewsDay Live) — Musabvunda Fitness and Lifestyle is set to host the fourth edition of its flagship event, bolstered by a major sponsorship deal with First Mutual.
The insurer, through its First Care Health Medical division, has come on board as title sponsor for the 2026 edition.
Now rebranded the First Care Musabvunda Half Marathon and Family Fun Day, the event will be held on May 10 at Blakiston Primary School in Milton Park.
The programme starts at 5:30am and runs into the evening, combining competitive road running with family entertainment.
Founder Kudzai Pasipanodya, popularly known as “Greatkhalister”, said the partnership marks a significant milestone.
“Securing a title sponsor is a major step for us. We are grateful to First Care Health Medical for coming on board,” he said.
The half marathon headlines the morning, before the event transitions into a family-oriented celebration aligned with Mother’s Day.
“It’s about fitness and family. We’ve built this event around Mother’s Day to bring people together, with games for both children and adults,” Pasipanodya said.
A diverse entertainment lineup will feature Baba Harare, Ex-Q, Voltz JT, Tryson Chimbetu and Silent Killer.
The race also serves as a build-up to the Comrades Marathon, attracting serious runners looking to sharpen form.
“This is our fourth edition and it keeps growing. We are targeting about 5,000 participants, with many using it to prepare for Comrades,” he said.
Pasipanodya added that other disciplines, including bodybuilding, will return in future editions.
The event is backed by partners including Seeff, Crown Pharmacy, Tanganda, Goldtech, Zamp-imgold and Zithatha Group.
Beyond sport, organisers say the initiative promotes mental wellness and raises awareness on drug and substance abuse.
Tickets range from US$10 to US$15 for members and selected card holders, while general admission is US$20.
With strong corporate backing and a high-profile lineup, the 2026 edition is expected to be the biggest yet.