Long Distance Runner Dies After Collapsing 20 Minutes After Crossing Finishing Line

Veteran long distance runner, Leonard Kazembe (69) died a few hours after the Old Mutual Nkulumane Half Marathon. He is said to have collapsed 20 minutes after crossing the finishing line of the main race and was taken to hospital by an ambulance where he later died. He will be buried at his rural home in Rusape.

Speaking to The Chronicle, Bulawayo Athletics Board (Bab) chairperson Manuel Mpofu expressed his condolences to Kazembe’s family. Said Mpofu:

Kazembe was a Grandmaster. He completed the race on Sunday as number 78 overall and third in his category. Everyone involved in the organisation of the Old Mutual Nkulumane Half Marathon would like to express our sincere condolences to Kazembe’s family and friends. The news of his passing came as a shock to everyone. I had an opportunity to chat with him just before the race and it was really sad to hear of his passing after the race.

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