Times Of Swaziland: 2025 COMRADES MARATHON ENTRIES OPEN

2025 COMRADES MARATHON ENTRIES OPEN
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Sports Reporter on 14/11/2024 09:24:00


MBABANE - The thrill of anticipation fills the air, as the Comrades Marathon
Association (CMA) opens entries for the epic 2025 Comrades Marathon.
This is an iconic ultra-marathon that beckons runners from all corners of the
globe. Scheduled for Sunday, June 8, 2025, this legendary race marks its 98th
edition, inviting both seasoned marathoners and enthusiastic newcomers to
embrace the challenge of an approximately 89km journey from Pietermaritzburg to
Durban, South Africa. Known for its gruelling course and indomitable spirit, the
Comrades Marathon has become a rite of passage for athletes from nearly 75
countries. In 2025, participants will tackle the 49th Down Run, starting at the
historic Pietermaritzburg City Hall and culminating at the vibrant People’s
Park in Durban. With its scenic yet demanding route, the race promises to test
the limits of endurance, while fostering camaraderie among runners.
Aspiring
As excitement builds, the CMA encourages aspiring participants to register
early. With limited entries available, the online registration portal at
www.comrades.com and the Comrades App will be the gateways to securing a coveted
spot in this prestigious event. The demand is expected to surge, and those who
wish to be part of this extraordinary experience should act swiftly. However,
aspiring runners, including emaSwati must remember that entry into the Comrades
Marathon requires more than just desire.
To qualify, participants must complete at least one Athletics South Africa (ASA)
technically compliant race between June 10, 2024, and May 5, 2025. This
qualifying race must be no shorter than 42.2km, ensuring that all entrants are
adequately prepared for the arduous challenge ahead. Most emaSwati have already
earned a spot through last month’s Imbube Marathon, which is a Comrades
Qualifier. Seasoned runner Khetsiwe Hlophe, who is an International Comrades
Marathon Brand Ambassador for Eswatini, has urged emaSwati to embrace the
challenge, highlighting that the Comrades is more than just a race, but a test
of endurance, resilience and human spirit.
Celebrated
Hlophe has also endured the celebrated event a couple of times. “The
camaraderie from the thousands of participants and the support from the people
of KwaZulu-Natal is what kept me pushing and finishing the 90km run. “I have
four Comrades medals so far and counting. I would like to encourage more
emaSwati to join this ultimate human race and experience the great sense of
achievement that comes with finishing and getting the precious Comrades marathon
medal within the 12-hour cut off,” she said.
As the countdown to race day begins, the Comrades Marathon stands as a testament
to the resilience of the human spirit. It is a celebration of perseverance,
strength and the shared passion for running. Whether you are a seasoned veteran
or a courageous first-timer, the 2025 Comrades Marathon promises to be an
unforgettable journey that will echo in the hearts of all who dare to
participate.