GODWIN Katakura and Silvia Kwambaya were crowned champions in the 42.2km category of the 2026 CBZ Marathon men’s and women’s events, respectively, at Old Georgians Sports Club yesterday.
Katakura from Cadence Club, crossed the finish line first in two hours, 16 minutes and 53 seconds (2.16.53) ahead of his club mate and training partner Blessing Waison, who finished second in 2.17.54. Owen Slowly was the third man home in 2.23.37.
Interestingly, Waison beat Katakura into second position in last year’s edition of the marathon popularly known by the moniker The Blue Carpet.
In the women’s event of the 42.2km category Kwambaya from Mr. Pace stormed home ahead of veteran athlete Ethel Pangiso who clocked 2.58.39.
The men’s 21.1 km category was won by Kenyan runner Isaac Langet from Mr. Pace who came home in 1.08.56, about two minutes ahead of Black Rhinos’ Tendai Zimuto. Nedbank’s Golden Mhonderwa took third place in 1.11.15.
Mr. Pace’s Fortunate Chidzivo triumphed in the women’s 21.1 km category in 1.20.55, about four minutes ahead of Caroline Mhandu from ZPCS, with Mirrian Sibanda from Mr. Pace coming third.
The competitive 21.1 km wheel chair category saw Munyaradzi Katiyo of Tsvaira coming first in the men’s category in a time of 1.08.27, with Elford Moyo coming second in 1.35.01.
Stella Jongwe was the first one home in the women’s wheel chair category ahead of Thandiwe Ndlovu and Margret Bangajena who were second and third, respectively.
Katakura, who stormed to victory in the men’s 42.2km marathon, said he was delighted to have finally won the event after many failed attempts.
“I am very happy because I have achieved what I had prepared for in a very long period of time.
“The race will help me in preparation for the next coming events like the Two Oceans Marathon which is going to take place soon,” said Katakura.
During the prize-giving ceremony, CBZ Chief Executive Officer Lawrence Nyazema praised the athletes and the supporters who turned the marathon into a festival of sport and family highlighting the event’s growing prestige.
Speaking during the prize-giving ceremony, CBZ Holdings group chief executive officer, Lawrence Nyazema expressed satisfaction with the way the event was organised.
“I am sure most of us are aware that the CBZ Marathon was selected and awarded as road race of the year 2025.
“I am also clear in my mind that it was even a better race and a better arrangement this time around.
“My wish is to thank all the athletes who participated in this prestigious event, and for those who have qualified to go to Comrades Marathon and Two Oceans Marathon,” said Nyazema who pledged an even bigger CBZ Marathon next time out.
By Patrick Mubwandarikwa