Victoria Falls Marathon -One Of The Well Known Race In The World

Victoria Falls Marathon

"Come and Run in a New Zimbabwe"

This high profile international marathon and half marathon is taking place on the 23rd August 2009. This marathon is said to be one of the most thrilling races on the continent.

"Where else in the world do you have elephants at the water-points, and game on the race route, and the post-race party on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River?" said promoter John Addison of Wild Frontiers.

The third official Victoria Falls Marathon will be organised by Safari Par Excellence, Wild Horizons, and Wild Frontiers (Pty) Ltd and National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe.

The race has been measured at 42.2 km, a standard marathon, as well as the 21.km half marathon and a 5Km fun run, all are being run on tarmac roads. The race route has been measured by an IAAF representative.

Starting in Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe opposite the Kingdom Hotel the runners will cross over the famous Victoria Falls Bridge into Zambia about turn just on the other side and then run back up the banks of the Zambezi River towards the gates of the Zambezi National Park finishing back at the Victoria Falls Primary School.

The runners should be very aware that there is a good chance of meeting some of the local Victoria Falls wildlife along the route. This marathon is one of the only races in the world that crosses an international border from Zimbabwe to Zambia and the runners will be running through a National Park and World Heritage site – how unique is that?

The event will be filmed and televised across Africa and also the USA by Supersport and is expected to attract runners from over 24 countries from around the world.

"We anticipate this race to grow into a large 'must do' event in Africa, maybe even rivalling some of the bigger SOUTH African events such Two Oceans etc. but a lot better and more fun!" said Addision.

Themed "Come and Run in a New Zimbabwe", organisers plan to use the event to raise money for schools in the Victoria Falls township of Chinotimba. The funds raised in the past two events have supported such causes as AIDS orphans in Victoria Falls.

The marathon will end with an official marathon sunset cruise and after party on the Zambezi River on the Sunday 23rd August.

AND if the race is not enough for you the options of white water rafting, canoeing, bungee jumping, elephant back safaris, lion walks etc. should certainly make the trip worth your while.

This destination is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, so make the most of it.

The authors of this article Tony and Boo Peel are Zimbabweans who are passionate about their country. They have developed an informative and unique website all about Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls - A Natural Wonder of the World. Please visit their website the Complete Travel Guide to Victoria Falls - You will be amazed at the enormous volume of free information available.

Author:-TONY PEEL