Former Mamelodi Sundowns player enters the world of athletics! | OneFootball

It seems he has found a new world and found it suitable.

Former Mamelodi Sundowns player enters the world of athletics!

From the roaring stadiums of South African football to the serene highlands of Zimbabwe, Alois Bunjira is building a legacy that extends far beyond the pitch. The former Mamelodi Sundowns and Bidvest Wits winger has masterminded an internationally certified marathon, a venture that marks a rare and successful post-playing career transition.

The NetOne Albun Honde Valley Marathon, launched in October, is the fruit of a partnership with Zimbabwean mobile telecommunications provider NetOne. Its name is deeply personal: 'Albun' is a fusion of his own forename and surname, while the race is held in the picturesque Honde Valley, his birthplace.

For Bunjira, the recent international certification of the marathon is the realization of a major ambition. He expressed his elation, stating:

“We are now internationally recognised after the certification. It is a dream come true – one of our main goals was to gain international recognition, and we are on track to meet the other objectives, including helping fight drug abuse and promoting fitness.”

Sixteen years after retiring from a professional career that included memorable stints at Sundowns, Jomo Cosmos, and Bidvest Wits, Bunjira is not just staying relevant but is pioneering new paths. He has skillfully merged his sporting background with a new passion, creating a fresh chapter for athletics in Zimbabwe.

Yet, his commitment to football remains unwavering. Alongside his marathon directorship, Bunjira is the founder of the Albun Academy in Harare and is actively involved in the marketing department of Caps United FC—a club where he once showcased his talent and which remains one of the revered 'Big Three' in Zimbabwean football. Through these ventures, Bunjira continues to be a pivotal figure in shaping the nation's sporting landscape.