The Eastern Highlands is gearing up for an exciting weekend of sports and tourism as the inaugural RTG Mountain Valley Marathon comes to the region on September 26, 2026. The first-place male and female runners in the main event will each take home US$750 in prize money. On top of the cash prize, the winners will enjoy a two-night holiday for two, including dinner, bed, and breakfast, at any Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG) hotel of their choice.
Organisers initially expected around 300 runners, but interest in the event has grown rapidly. According to Musabvunda Chief Executive Officer Kudzai Pasipanodya, up to 1,500 participants are now expected to join the race.
RTG Chief Commercial Officer Shupai Marwe explained that the marathon is about more than just running. He said the event is designed to promote the Eastern Highlands and show people that it is one of Zimbabwe’s top places to visit for leisure, right alongside Victoria Falls.
Marwe noted that the government has approved the Eastern Highlands as a special economic zone, which has helped boost tourism development across the region. He added that the area offers beautiful scenery, easy access, and improving facilities for travelers.
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RTG expanded into the Eastern Highlands in 2025 when it bought the Montclair Resort and Conference Centre. The group has spent about US$2 million updating the hotel, including its guest rooms, main reception, restaurant, and conference spaces. This investment increased the resort's capacity from 85 to 110 rooms. RTG has also refurbished the nearby Nyanga Town and Glacier Resort Apartments to offer even more place for visitors to stay.
Runners competing in the 21-kilometer half-marathon will also have secondary prizes to aim for. The second-place male and female runners will each win US$500, along with a two-night bed and breakfast stay for two at an RTG hotel. The third-place male and female runners will receive US$350 each and meal vouchers for two people.
The organisers have also created a special category for older runners. The first senior male and female runners to finish will each take home US$250 and an accommodation voucher for two at an RTG property.
Speaking at a press conference, Pacific Marketing Manager Kudakwashe Chiutsi expressed pride in partnering with RTG for the event. She described the "Mountain Valley Marathon with Pacific Breeze" as a major wellness campaign that brings together fitness, entertainment, and the community to create a great experience for everyone involved.
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