Excitement Builds as 97th Comrades Marathon Takes Off in South Africa

The 97th edition of the renowned Comrades Marathon kicked off with enthusiasm in South Africa‘s scenic province of KwaZulu-Natal, drawing over 20,000 participants to the challenging ‘Up Run’ course. Athletes from various corners of the globe, including defending champions Tete Dijana and Gerda Steyn, are set to test their limits in this prestigious event.

Last year’s winners, Tete Dijana and Gerda Steyn, are aiming for a remarkable three-peat and a consecutive victory respectively in the grueling 56-kilometer race, with Gerda currently leading the women’s pack.

Around 20,600 runners representing countries like South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Russia, the UK, the United States, and Canada have converged in Pietermaritzburg to participate in the 97th Comrades Marathon, famously known as Africa’s richest ultra-marathon. The race began at the iconic Durban City Hall and will culminate 12 hours later at the HollywoodBets Scottsville Racecourse in Pietermaritzburg.

As the athletes tackle the challenging course, key landmarks such as Mkondeni, a crucial point that marks the final cut-off of the marathon, have been strategically adjusted by the Comrades Marathon Association board. This modification grants the participants, particularly the backmarkers, a slight extension of time to complete the demanding ‘Up Run.’

With various checkpoints along the route, including Winston Park, Drummond, Cato Ridge, and Umlaas Road, each presenting unique challenges and time limitations, the race demands endurance, strategy, and sheer determination from the committed runners.

As the excitement and anticipation build, all eyes are on the unfolding drama of the 97th Comrades Marathon, where elite athletes and passionate amateurs alike push their limits in pursuit of personal goals and sporting glory.