RACE READY: Comrades marks 50th edition of ‘up run’ with big focus on safety

The 50th Comrades “up run” will be the shortest in recent history, with organisers introducing expanded safety measures for the country’s most iconic race.

On Sunday, 14 June, approximately 20,000 runners are expected to line up at Durban City Hall for the 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon, South Africa’s “Ultimate Human Race”.

It is the ultimate challenge because it’s all about pain and commitment to pushing on to that infamous 12-hour cut-off no matter the circumstances.

But if there is a sliver of comfort for those about to tackle this iconic race, it’s that this year’s course is 85.777km, making it the shortest “up run” in recent Comrades history.

This year’s course, starting from Durban City Hall and ending at the Hollywoodbets Scottsville Racecourse, shaves off 133m from the 2024 distance of 85.91km.

The alteration comes down to necessary adjustments in response to ongoing infrastructure upgrades along the route.

This is according to Alain Dalais, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) general manager.

“Since the last ‘up run’ in 2024, we’ve had areas that have been basically shortened due to improvements in the roadworks,” Dalais told Daily Maverick. “That’s what led to us shaving off a bit of the distance.”

Provided roadworks and route conditions remain largely unchanged, the 2028 “up run” was expected to mirror this year’s distance, said Dalais.

This year’s event carries added significance as it marks the 50th edition of the “up run” and the last one before next year’s historic centenary.

“The Comrades is an integral part of South African history and, of course, sporting history,” said Dalais. “It is an extra special race for so many reasons, and this year is extra special because it’s the 50th up run and it’s the 99th Comrades Marathon before next year’s historic 100th running of the race.”

According to Dalais, a big focus for this year will be runner safety and experience.

The race has introduced a three-group start format, adding an additional group from 2025, taking into account safety and medical assessments as well as positive feedback from athletes.

“Nobody wants to run where you’re constantly feeling like you might fall or get trampled on. It’s also not enjoyable if you’re feeling squashed or claustrophobic.”

Of the 22,000 entrants, 21,633 successfully qualified for this year’s race. However, Dalais expects the final field to shrink through normal attrition, with at least 20,000 runners expected to start.

Under the three-group start system, approximately 10,000 runners, including the elite athletes, would set off in t