By Zim Sport Live Writer
Zimbabwean long-distance runner Collins Kanyimo delivered a dominant performance to win the 24km Totalsports Two Oceans Long Trail Race on Friday, reaffirming his status as one of the top endurance athletes on the circuit.
Representing Nedbank Running Club, the Zimbabwe-born made his intentions clear early in the race, breaking away from the lead pack just 4km in at Newlands Forest. From that moment, he never looked back, powering to victory in an impressive time of 2 hours, 02 minutes and 07 seconds.
“My plan was to run away on the climbs — I am stronger there,” Kanyimo said.
“Down runs are difficult for me, but I know I have speed from specialising in road races. I pushed hard on the climb to open a gap so I could manage the descents.”
His strategy paid off perfectly, as he steadily extended his lead throughout the race. By the time he reached the descent from the Saddle — roughly two-thirds into the race — Kanyimo had opened up a commanding four-minute advantage over his closest challengers.
South Africa’s Siviwe Nkombi finished strongly to claim second place in 2:06:25, overtaking Iain Peterkin, who had to settle for third.
The race attracted nearly 700 athletes competing across the 16km and 24km distances, with ideal weather conditions contributing to a high-quality event in Cape Town.
Kanyimo’s victory adds to an already impressive résumé, which includes his triumph at the 43km Cape Town Trail Marathon in 2024 and the Two Oceans Long Trail Race in 2022, further cementing his reputation as one of Zimbabwe’s top long-distance exports.
His latest success is yet another proud moment for Zimbabwean athletics on the international stage.