Tendai Zimuto underlined his status as one of Zimbabwe's finest distance runners on Sunday by claiming the 2026 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon title with a commanding performance that earned him his second victory in the country's premier road race.
Zimuto crossed the finish line in 2 hours 16 minutes and 10 seconds to pocket the US$3 000 winner's prize, finishing ahead of fellow Zimbabweans Owen Slowly and Blessing Waison in a race that featured a strong field of elite local and international athletes.
The victory saw Zimuto reclaim the crown he first won in 2024, reaffirming his consistency on one of Africa's most scenic and competitive marathon courses.
“This is my second victory here and it means a lot because the competition was very strong,” said Zimuto.
“I knew I was up against experienced runners, so I had to remain patient and stick to my race plan. Winning in Victoria Falls is always special because this is one of the biggest races in the region.”
Zimbabwe's celebrations continued in the men's half marathon, where rising star Godwin Katakura produced an impressive run to claim his maiden Econet Victoria Falls Marathon title.
Katakura clocked 1 hour, 4 minutes and 33 seconds to secure the US$1 500 top prize, crediting months of disciplined preparation for his breakthrough victory.
“I worked hard for this race and believed I could win. This is a big achievement for me and I hope it is the beginning of many more victories. I will definitely be back to defend my title,” he said.
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Kenya, meanwhile, maintained its rich tradition in women's distance running as Silvia Kwambai won the full marathon in 2 hours 46 minutes and 7 seconds, finishing ahead of defending champion Fortunate Chidzivo and veteran marathoner Rutendo Nyahora.
Her compatriot Mercy Chemutai completed a successful day for the East African nation by winning the women's half marathon in 1 hour 15 minutes and 48 seconds, ahead of Zimbabwe's Melody Kaseke and Kenya's Peris Lobakana.
Chemutai said the demanding Victoria Falls course tested both her endurance and determination.
“The opening kilometres were difficult and I struggled to find my rhythm, but I managed to recover and finish strongly,” she said.
“It was my first time racing here and I was impressed by how well organised everything was. The course markings were clear and the support from spectators kept us motivated.”
Set against the spectacular backdrop of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon has grown into Zimbabwe's flagship road-running event, attracting elite athletes and recreational runners from across Africa and beyond.
This year's edition drew more than 5 000 participants from 42 countries, reinforcing the event's growing international appeal and its reputation as one of the continent's leading road races.
Beyond the competition, the marathon has become a powerful driver of sports tourism, generating business for the hospitality sector while showcasing Victoria Falls as a destination capable of hosting world-class international sporting events.
Picture Caption:
Men’s full 2026 marathon winner Tendai Zimuto holds up his medal and winner’s trophy after a brilliant performance at the 2026 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon, winning the 42-km race in a time of 2:16:10.
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