WHAT started as a humble early morning jogging group focused on wellness has blossomed into a significant annual event: the Binga Marathon, now heading into its eighth edition in 2025.
Organisers are optimistic, targeting a robust participation of 1 500 athletes, making it a highlight on the district’s sporting calendar.
The 2025 edition of the Kasambabezi Binga Marathon will be taking place on September 27.
This year’s marathon runs concurrently with the Provincial Wellness programme, backed by the National Aids Council, stressing its alignment with broader health and community objectives.
“Our event brings together all sectors of the economy and promotes businesses in the district — be it tourism, small businesses or the retail sector,” said Recent Ncube, chairperson of the Kasambabezi Binga Marathon.
The race kicks off from Binga Freedom Square, promising an energetic start to what promises to be a vibrant day.
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Entertainment will be provided by DJ Galaz, who will be grooving at Binga Sand Beach, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Plans also include a luncheon with club representatives and corporates aimed at fostering partnerships and elevating the event further.
“As a preparatory marathon for the Vic Falls event, 10 wellness athletes who used to jog in the morning decided to craft the Kasambabezi Binga Marathon,” Ncube recalled, tracing the event’s genesis.
He emphasised the marathon’s growth, saying: “The event has not only put Binga on the map, but also promoted sport tourism, cultural diversity while uplifting business in the district.”
Beyond the thrill of competition, the marathon serves multiple purposes.
“It brings brisk business, also exposure for the young athletes. Also brings together communities and corporates ensuring community engagement,” Ncube noted, highlighting its role in local economic stimulation and athlete development.
Funding, however, remains a challenge.
“For sports to thrive, corporates should give back and support the communities that provide for their existence,” he emphasised, pointing to the event’s reliance on contributions and sponsorships from various organisations like Econet, AFC Holdings and the World Wildlife Fund.
Last year saw donations of foodstuffs to institutions like Sunrise Children’s Home, Kabwe Children’s Home, prisons and Binga Hospital.
This year, organisers anticipate donating computers to one of the local schools, aligning with their ambitious goal of total Binga digitisation by 2040.
“This fits into our target of total Binga digitisation 2040,” Ncube said, spotlighting the event’s integration with broader developmental aspirations for the district.
“The full marathon will be there this year because we have noted that if we start at 6am, they will be done by around 11am before temperatures become extreme.”
He emphasised practical considerations for the event’s logistics.
The Kasambabezi Binga Marathon features various distances including 42km, 21km, 10km, and 5km races, plus a 10km wheelchair race, catering to professional athletes, school athletes, and community members.
Themes like mitigating human-wildlife conflict through sport have been central to recent editions, promoting coexistence and awareness.
With its blend of sport, entertainment, business promotion, and community outreach, the Binga Marathon stands as a testament to local initiative and collaborative spirit, carving its niche in Zimbabwe’s sporting landscape.