Teen Dropout Triumphs: Tafadzwa Mafuruse Wins $200 in Honde Valley Marathon
By Elizabeth Kucherera
Tafadzwa Mafuruse (17), a school dropout due to poverty, emerged victorious in the second edition of the Albun NetOne Marathon held recently in Honde Valley. The young athlete walked away with $200 after clinching first place in the 10-kilometer open race.
The event, spearheaded by former Zimbabwe National Soccer Team player Alois Bunjira, was sponsored by NetOne and Tendo Electronics. The marathon attracted a wide range of competitive categories, with Mafuruse standing out as the top performer in the 10-kilometer race. He completed the course in an impressive 27 minutes, earning both cash and additional prizes.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Mafuruse struggled to contain his joy during an interview with this publication.
“I am happy that I managed to win these awards as the first athlete,” he said. “This large amount of money will help my family at home since I come from a poor background. My parents will appreciate my efforts in sports.”
He also expressed gratitude to the sponsors, adding, “May all the sponsors continue their support for us athletes.”
Other standout performers in the marathon included Isaac Mpofu, Rutendo Nyahora, and Innocent Gonese, who also walked away with prizes in various categories.
Chief Mutasa graced the event as the guest of honor.He commended the organizers for their efforts in promoting sports in the region.
“This marathon is a testament to the potential of our community and importance of sports in bringing people together” he said.
NetOne CEO Engineer Raphael Mushanawani, praised the community for the team spirit.
“This marathon is not just a test of endurance, it is a celebration of the spirit of athleticism and competitiveness that brings us together.”
He said that the community was not just running a marathon, it was making a statement and they must continue to work hand in hand lacing up not only in shoes but also commitment to a brighter future .
