WATCH: BLADES OF GLORY, British double amputee stuns Vic Falls Marathon with 96th full race finish
Rutendo Nyeve
THE Victoria Falls Marathon got a jolt of pure inspiration when British athlete Richard Whitehead (48) sliced through the 42km full marathon — on blades.
Yes, blades.
The decorated Paralympian, who is a double leg amputee, completed the 2025 Econet Victoria Falls Full Marathon in style, marking an incredible 96th full marathon finish in his amazing career.
Whitehead, a four-time Paralympic medallist from England, ran using carbon fibre prosthetic running blades, drawing gasps and cheers from spectators lining the iconic course.
“It’s not about the legs you lose, it’s about the heart you bring,” said Whitehead after crossing the finish line to a standing ovation.
The Victoria Falls race is one of the most scenic and demanding in Africa, but the seasoned athlete showed grit, rhythm and sheer determination as he powered through the rolling terrain and humid conditions.
This is not Whitehead’s first time making headlines. He holds the world record for athletes with double leg amputations in both the full and half marathon categories. He is also known for completing a 40-day, 40-marathon challenge across Britain z— earning him a national hero status in the UK.
But this was his first dance with Zimbabwe’s iconic race.
“This was special. Running alongside the mighty Victoria Falls was humbling. I came here to push my boundaries and show others that limits are just illusions,” said the trailblazer.
Spectators and fellow runners were left in awe as he glided past several able-bodied competitors with his trademark smooth stride.
“He is a beast. I was struggling at 25km, and this man on blades passed me like I was standing still,” said one Zimbabwean runner, still catching his breath after the race.
The 2025 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon attracted over 5 000 runners from across the world, but Whitehead stole the spotlight.
His appearance also raised awareness for inclusion and para-athletics in Zimbabwe, where disabled athletes often struggle for recognition and support.
Local race organisers praised Whitehead’s participation, calling it a “game-changing moment” for the future of the marathon and para-sports in the region.
With just four races left before hitting his personal goal of 100 full marathons, Whitehead vowed to keep going strong.
And after conquering the thunderous paths of Vic Falls, the world now knows — nothing stands in his way.
Not even the loss of legs.
The post WATCH: BLADES OF GLORY, British double amputee stuns Vic Falls Marathon with 96th full race finish appeared first on herald.