Hi All
I’ve just returned from competing in the annual Small Bridge Triathlon. Small Bridge is a large lake situated at the start of the Eastern Highlands some 40km north of Mutare. This short drive takes one along steep, winding roads with good tar to an elevation of 1551 m – 330m above that of Mutare. When the mists are down, the whole lake is often covered in clouds, reminding one of the Lake District in the UK. It is well known in local Angling circles for its rated fishing with all the facilities you need for either a family camping weekend or a Boys-only fishing trip.
This year the weekend was, once again, generously sponsored by KDV Bedding who added in a Double Tuscany Bed Set for a lucky draw.
Most of us Harare participants drove up on Friday morning setting up our tents overlooking the serene waterfront. Some of the Early birds were fortunate enough to rent one of the locally owned cottages. Hats off to all the Mutare folk who drove up on Saturday morning to join in the fun.
This weekend we had the complete suite of triathlon events from the full standard to the Tri-Sport introduced to cater for the littlies (7-12) – 50m swim and 2km ride finishing with a 1km run. Even though Small Bridge is currently at 33% capacity, it is such a large open water dam with plenty of space for swimming our 1500m. The 40 km cycle took us along good, meandering tar roads allowing us backmarker spectacular views of the pine forests.
The birdlife is always prolific in the Eastern Highlands with some of my favourites like the Pin Tailed and Broad Tailed Whydahs showing their acrobatic skills in the early morning.
The whole weekend was made complete with the inclusion of Shingi Pasawarayi’s (0772-254-927) travelling “The Draughtman” caravan set up with lots of Cold Draught beer plus Bacon and Egg rolls (et al) that were suitably appreciated by both athletes and spectators.
The Zimbabwe Triathlon committee lived up to their usual high standards with all the International Triathlon rules being adhered to a T. If any young adults would love an opportunity to combine their organising skills with a passion for sport, they would not have a better place to start than with Triathlon Zimbabwe. They are holding a Technical Officials Level one course over the weekend of 18th January 2025 (Contact Tammy 0772288030). Even if you’re not an athlete you could have a great family weekend at Small Bridge just 4 hours away from Harare. Many kids brought up in this country have, for many years now, been introduced to camping at an early age. No wild animals to worry about – just need to take extra care with non-swimmers. Buy an affordable family tent that is easy to assemble from Big Sky in Pomona. Ciao Mike G.
