No Zim triathletes in Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup elite category

ANESU MASAMVU

Austria will field four triathletes—the most from any country—at this weekend’s Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup, set for Saturday at the breathtaking Troutbeck Resort in Nyanga, Manicaland. This premier event will attract elite athletes from across Africa and beyond, competing in one of the continent’s most scenic and challenging triathlon courses.

However, Zimbabwe will have no representation in either elite category this year. South Africa, Germany, the Netherlands, and Morocco will each field two triathletes, while Greece, Mauritius, the USA, Finland, Japan, and France will send one athlete apiece.

Now in its 17th edition, the Troutbeck event features swimming, cycling, and running, catering to competitors of all skill levels. The course, set at 2,000m above sea level in the hilly Eastern Highlands, provides a grueling test of endurance.

Coca-Cola, through its Bonaqua brand, continues as a key sponsor of the annual event. Barry Otieno, Senior Marketing Manager for Zimbabwe and Malawi, emphasized the long-standing partnership’s impact.

“We are thrilled to once again partner with Bonaqua as the official hydration partner for the Africa Triathlon Cup. Our dedication to quality hydration aligns perfectly with the spirit of triathlon, where endurance and performance are essential. A special thanks to our long-time sponsors, whose commitment has helped create a platform for sporting excellence and community engagement.”

An exciting highlight of the weekend is the Triathlon Corporate Challenge, where 54-year-old Milton “Khama” Kamangira will compete for Schweppes Holdings Africa Limited (SHAL).

Now in his fourth year at the Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup, Kamangira remains driven by the thrill of competition.

“Each year, my excitement grows as I look forward to representing my company and being part of the incredible Zimbabwe triathlon family,” he said.

While most athletes in their 50s transition to coaching or retirement, Kamangira continues to push his limits.

“The unique combination of camaraderie, personal growth, and the thrill of competition keeps me coming back. The sense of achievement and pride in representing my company makes this event a highlight of my year. I’m already counting down to the finals.”

After intense training, Kamangira has his sights set on gold—not silver or bronze.

As anticipation builds, all eyes are on Troutbeck, where athletes will battle for glory in one of Africa’s most prestigious triathlon events.