Faith Ndou
MASVINGO-Excitement is building across Zimbabwe as preparations reach the final stretch for the Great Zimbabwe Marathon scheduled for Sunday the 19th of October 2025.
The race will begin at Clipsham and finish at the Great Zimbabwe Monuments, offering participants an unforgettable combination of sport, culture and heritage.
The event organised by Eastview Elites Running Club in partnership with Lutah Creative Solutions has evolved into one of the country’s most anticipated annual showcases.
Now in its fifth edition, the Great Zimbabwe Marathon continues to celebrate resilience, unity and national pride through sport.
This year’s race will feature 42.2km, 25km and 10km distances, all World Athletics certified, making it a qualifying event for major international races such as the Comrades Marathon and Two Oceans Marathon.
In honour of the marathon’s 5th anniversary, organisers have introduced a special 5km Fun Lap, designed to encourage participation from families, beginners and casual runners.
Participants and spectators will be entertained by the Copota School of the Blind Mbira Band and the Great Zimbabwe University Traditional Dance Group.
On the course, runners will be cheered on by mobile bands from Kwekwe Running Clubs and vibrant DJ sound trucks, creating a festive, uniquely Zimbabwean atmosphere.
Speaking to The Midweek Watch, founder and race director Loreen Alutah Chari said preparations are going smoothly and enthusiasm continues to rise across the nation.
“The Great Zimbabwe Marathon has grown into more than just a sporting event it’s a true celebration of our identity as Zimbabweans,” said Chari.
“The support from athletes, sponsors and the Masvingo community has been incredible. We’re ready to make this edition our best ever.”
The marathon enjoys solid backing from the corporate sector. Tanganda Tea Company returns as the official hydration partner, providing water stations along the route to ensure participants stay cool and hydrated. Long time partners such as Great Zimbabwe Hotel, Lodge at the Ancient City, Econet Wireless, Econet Life, Zonful Energy, Deposit Protection Corporation, Jadeyed and CABS have also reaffirmed their commitment to the event.
The festivities will begin on Friday the 18th of October with aerobics and fitness sessions led by KD Fitness Gym to warm up participants, followed by a lively Runners Welcome Party hosted at The Stop Over Gardens, a perfect prelude to an action packed weekend in Masvingo.
In addition to promoting fitness, tourism and cultural appreciation, the Great Zimbabwe Marathon maintains a strong charitable mission as this year’s race will go towards supporting the Copota School of the Blind and heritage conservation initiatives, underscoring the organisers dedication to uplifting local communities.
With its dynamic mix of competition, entertainment and social impact, the 2025 Great Zimbabwe Marathon promises to deliver a memorable experience for all.
