THE fourth edition of the Rock City Marathon is to be rolled out today at New Africa Hotel in Dar es Salaam. The event which mainly aims at promoting domestic tourism concept through sports will be launched by the National Sports Council (NSC) Chairman Dioniz Malinzi, hence giving intended participants a chance to start filling the application forms.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam, the event's coordinator Grace Sanga said preparations for the eagerly awaited races are in top gear and lovers of sports should expect a breathtaking performance.

The event has attracted a number of stakeholders in sports, and also drawn attention of companies like National Social Security Fund (NSSF), Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), African Barrick Gold, Nyanza Bottlers, Parastatal Pensions Fund (PPF), Geita Gold Mine, TANAPA, Sahara Communication, ATCL, New Mwanza Hotel, Airtel, and New Africa Hotel who have come out as sponsors.

Capital Plus International Limited (CPI) -an integrated communication and public relations company- is organizing the event for the fourth time which has proved to be a big success since it was inaugurated in 2009. The marathon has been going under the theme "Promoting Domestic Through Sports".

Ms Sanga said, "We are grateful to other companies which have already come on board. This is another opportunity for companies to show its customers that they do not only capitalize in profit making but also supports Government's drive to scale up domestic tourism, and at the same time they will be publicizing their products and services."

She said the marathon to be held on 28th October, 2012 in Mwanza CCM Kirumba ground will include events like cross country (5km non competitive ) this is in preparation of the mini marathon, 21 Km -Half marathon, 5 Km -Fun race (Classic for all) , 3 Km -Disabled race, 3 Km -elderly and 2 Km-Children (7-10 years). Ms Sanga said this event could help tap talents from young runners from the East African Community (EAC) member states.