Story by Raynald Ngwarati
ZIMBABWE’S Comrades Marathon legacy continues to inspire seasoned and casual athletes, with new records and generations stepping up to the challenge to preserve the rich history.
With a deep-rooted history in the Comrades Marathon dating as far back as 1923, the legacy of the country’s participation in the 90-kilometre road race continues to expand a century later.
Hailing from the then-Southern Rhodesia, Arthur Newton laid the foundation for Comrades participation with the country’s maiden appearance at one of the longest marathons in the world, which has inspired a new generation to follow in his footsteps.
Motivated by this rich history, Stephen Muzhingi, the country’s all-time long-distance great, went on to win the prestigious marathon three times, preserving a legacy and luring more people to the marathon.
“The little-known fact is that Arthur Newton, who used to run for Matebeleland Harriers, came second in 1923, and he went on to win five Comrades golds, the first in the history of our country. That was followed later by John Dickson and then by Stephen Muzvingi, who really is our all-time legend in long-distance running and one of the top Comrades runners in the history of the race. Unfortunately, Stephen had some bad management who stole his money and medals,” Comrades Marathon legend Andy Edmondson said.
Fast forward to 2025, 361 registered Zimbabweans, including 41 females, participated in this year’s edition, with a 94 percent finish rate as more Zimbabweans show interest in the annual showpiece year after year.
This Saturday, the local Comrades gathered to celebrate the continued growth and excellence of the country in the marathon, as the Real Star Comrades Achievement Awards took centre stage in the country.
“I am very happy to be part of the team that went to Comrades and achieved something. Comradeship is not easy for those who have done it before, those who will do it, and those who are doing it now. My goal now is to win Comrades. I have been there for many years, and the other time in 2019 I came 15th, as I am good at uphill running,” men’s best finisher Lynol Muchena noted.
“Next year, I want to try my best to be in the top 10. However, age has caught up with me now, I am 46, so I just have to try my best,” women’s best finisher Monica Kativhu added.
For his six hours, five minutes, and 32 seconds, Lynol Muchena was awarded the country’s top performer at the Comrades 2025, while veteran Monica Kativhu clocked eight hours and 29 minutes to claim the country’s crown in the women’s division.
