The Zimbabwe Salvation Army territorial marathon dubbed ” Battle for Bowman Half Marathon,” organised through the initiative Commissioner Wayne Bungay, Territorial Commander with the support from local and international partners, aimed at raising money for Major Bowman Murongas, a Salvation Army officer’s surgery was described as more than just a fundraising but as an event which brought people and the church together.
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The marathon included a 2km walk, a 5km walk and run, a 10km race, and a 21km race was held at Salvation Army Mabelreign Citadel on the 17th of February 2024.
Speaking to Zimgospel Masters, the outgoing Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Commissioner Deborah Bungay said she was impressed to see people coming in large numbers to support this event, it helps in bringing people together in one accord.
“Today is a special day for us. This is one of the two initiatives we had. This time we are sponsoring major Muronga for a surgery. It’s another way we can perform miracles by putting support, one day you will see him walking.
“This initiative surpassed its main objective, as we can see many people around us fellowship together through sports activities. It brought people and the church together, even the outsiders came to join this race. This clearly shows that it’s not only Major Muronga who is benefiting but the whole of salvationists and the surrounding community in health matters.” Said Commissioner Deborah Bungay
Commissioner Deborah has implored the significance of having these activities regularly as it helps to improve people’s fitness and she also sent a message of gratitude to their partners pointing that they could not do this without their hands.
“It’s a wonderful initiative and sports fellowship is a great thing we should keep up. We could not do this without our partners. They did not come to run but to give a donation. Even our friends in Canada had sent something that we are using today.”
Territorial Chief Secretary Colonel Tineyi Mambo said he hoped the event would become an annual tradition.
“The event was successful; we are so excited because it helped us to bring people together. It is also good for our health. Even the man himself, Major Bowman, walked 2km. I believe most of the Salvationists I would like to see this becoming an annual event,” said Colonel Tineyi Mambo
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Joyline Zindoga, the marathon’s chairperson, said the event was a success and thanked all the sponsors and participants. She said donations were still needed for Major Bowman’s surgery.
“We are hoping even after this event to get more donations towards this cause. Of course we might raise enough money but after the surgery we need more funds for his road to recovery.”
“I am thankful to all sponsors who have come through, all participants for making what it is today.”
Everyone who came to this event was registering for an amount of USD20. It was open to all including outsiders. Winners were awarded with certificates and medals.
Participants in the event said they were happy to have a chance to support a good cause and improve their health. Panashe Rould, said the event had a positive impact on his physical health. Another participant, Elton Kachambwa, said the event was a good way to bring people together and gospel music legend Baba Mechanic Manyeruke, who participated in the 2km walk, said the event was a great way to show support for the Salvation Army initiatives.
