Zimpapers Logo

Ricky Zililo Senior Sports Reporter
REGISTRATION has opened for this year’s Old Mutual 5km and 10km Fun Race set for Nkulumane Complex on Sunday. Those interested in taking part in the open race can register for free at Old Mutual offices in the central business district and Nkulumane Complex.

The race is part of the company’s social corporate responsibility programme. Winners for this year’s edition in both categories will get $1,000 each while the first runners-up and third placed runners in both the men and women’s races will each pocket $750 and $500 respectively.

Top athletes, who include Jacob Mugomeri, Elijah Mabhunu, Nkosiyazi Sibanda, Constance Nyasango, Rutendo Nyahora and Samukeliso Moyo, have confirmed their participation in the race.

Margaret Vera, the Old Mutual regional manager, said the integrated financial services group was promoting health and wellness in the community through the fun race.

“The objective of this race is to promote the well-being of the community as well as have fun while we market Nkulumane Shopping Mall. The Bulawayo community has given Old Mutual its undying support in running the Nkulumane Mall. As Old Mutual, we believe we have a responsibility to be the most supportive of the communities we serve and this race is but a small token of our appreciation,” Vera said.

Fun racers are expected to compete in the 5km event.

Olympian Cuthbert Nyasango won last year’s edition of the 10km Fun Race clocking 29 minutes 24.63 seconds.

Wirimayi Juwawo, the 2013 champion was second in 29 minutes 32.69 seconds. Mabhunu was third last year, crossing the line in 29 minutes 41.17 seconds and is one of the race favourites.

In the women’s category, Olivia Chitate successfully defended her title in an improved time of 34 minutes 07.09 seconds last year. She had won the run in 35 minutes 32.71 seconds in 2013.

Constance Nyasango, sister to Cuthbert, was the first runner-up in 34 minutes 23.71 seconds with Rutendo Nyahora third in a time of 34 minutes 58.90 seconds.

The Old Mutual 10km race starts and finishes at Nkulumane Complex.