South Africa’s most iconic ultra-marathon lit up the streets between Pietermaritzburg and Durban as the 98th Comrades Marathon shattered expectations with massive crowds, elite performances, and a prize purse that turned heads.
On Sunday, 8 June, nearly 21 000 runners braved the gruelling 89.98km ‘Down Run’, with an electric atmosphere surrounding the historic race that’s now just two years away from its centenary edition.
The race, managed by the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA), saw 18 194 runners complete the course, an impressive 86.75% finish rate. Roadside support was overwhelming, with tens of thousands of spectators and hundreds of volunteers lining the route to cheer on the runners.
Among the finishers, two familiar names rose above the rest: Tete Dijana and Gerda Steyn. Dijana, claiming his third title after wins in 2022 and 2023, finished in a swift 5:25:28. Steyn cemented her legendary status with a fourth win, finishing in 5:51:19. Each took home a staggering R1.14 million after combining race winnings with various incentive prizes, as per The Daily Investor.
The CMA used this year’s event as a test run for the highly anticipated 100th edition in 2027. This included implementing the first-ever split start in Comrades history to ease congestion and ensure better safety, a move that was widely praised.
Planning an event of this scale is no small feat. A seamless three-day registration saw runners collect their race packs, T-shirts and caps without a hitch. According to CMA General Manager Alain Dalais, 47 refreshment stations were fully stocked on race day, and medal ceremonies ran smoothly.
Increased security around the finish area led to a significant drop in reported crimes, making the experience safer for both runners and spectators.
The race also marked a financial milestone. After a rocky period during the pandemic, the CMA has rebounded, thanks to growing interest and a strong sponsorship model. Entry fees ranged from R1 200 for local runners to R4 500 for international competitors, helping support the race’s logistics and prize pool.
A 10% increase in prize money brought the total to R7.6 million this year, with cash prizes awarded to the top 10 men and women, age group leaders, provincial athletes, and winning teams. South African winners also earned bonus prizes, with Cell C offering an R50 000 reward for the fastest times through their sponsored ‘hotspot’ in Kloof.
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Sponsorship continues to be a key pillar. The CMA’s tiered sponsor model sees brands like Mr Price Sport, Thirsti, Cell C, and Toyota contribute both financially and through logistical support. Toyota, for instance, not only funds the event but also provides vehicles throughout the year.
Importantly, the CMA avoids overlapping sponsors in similar sectors, allowing each brand to maximise its exposure, which includes a massive 13-hour live broadcast viewed across the country. The race’s impact is also tracked in detail by Nielsen Sports, helping the CMA quantify advertising value, audience engagement and media impact.
As excitement builds towards the 100th race, Dalais says the event is drawing in not only sponsors but also former runners and newcomers who want to be part of the Comrades legacy.
‘Everyone wants to be part of the 100th,’ he said. ‘There’s a buzz. From athletes to stakeholders, everyone’s looking ahead, and we’re ready.’
With its legendary history, revitalised financial footing, and ever-growing fanbase, the Comrades Marathon is not just a race, it’s a national celebration of endurance, unity and the relentless South African spirit.
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Picture: Darren Stewart / Gallo Images
