Everything You Need To Know About Entering The Comrades Marathon

The Comrades Marathon is one of the most iconic and challenging races in the world. Known as the “Ultimate Human Race,” it spans approximately 90 kilometres (56 miles) between the cities of Durban and Pietermaritzburg in South Africa. Whether you’re a seasoned ultramarathoner or an ambitious runner looking to tackle your first ultra-distance race, here’s everything you need to know about entering the Comrades Marathon.

1. Understanding the Comrades Marathon

The Up and Down Runs

The Comrades Marathon alternates each year between an “up run” from Durban to Pietermaritzburg and a “down run” from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. The up run is notorious for its challenging climbs, while the down run tests your endurance with steep descents that can be punishing on your legs.

History and Prestige

Founded in 1921, the Comrades Marathon is the oldest ultramarathon in the world. Completing this race is a badge of honour in the running community, and many participants return year after year to conquer the course.

2. Qualification Requirements

Marathon Qualification

To enter the Comrades Marathon, you must first complete a standard marathon (42.2 kilometres) within a specified qualifying time. The qualifying time is dependent on your age and gender, but generally, runners must complete a marathon in under 4 hours and 50 minutes. Be sure to check the official Comrades website for the most up-to-date qualifying times and race deadlines.

Official Qualifying Races

While you can qualify at any certified marathon, the Comrades website lists several official qualifying races. Participating in these races can help ensure that your qualifying time is recognised without issue.

Age Restrictions

Participants must be at least 20 years old on the day of the Comrades Marathon. There’s no upper age limit, but all runners must meet the qualifying standards.

3. Registration Process

Online Registration

Registration for the Comrades Marathon typically opens in October of the preceding year. Spaces are limited, so it’s important to register as early as possible. The registration process is conducted online through the official Comrades website, where you’ll need to provide your personal details, qualifying race information, and payment.

Entry Fees

The entry fee varies based on your country of residence, with South African residents paying less than international participants. The fee also increases as the registration period progresses, so early registration is financially advantageous.

Number Collection

Runners must collect their race numbers at the Comrades Marathon Expo, held in the days leading up to the event. The expo is a vibrant gathering of the running community and a great place to pick up last-minute race gear, meet fellow participants, and soak in the pre-race atmosphere.

4. Training for the Comrades Marathon

Preparing for the Distance

Training for the Comrades Marathon is a serious commitment. Most training programs span 4 to 6 months and include long runs, hill training, and back-to-back long run weekends to build endurance. It’s essential to follow a structured training plan designed for ultramarathons. We highly recommend Runna, and you can use the code AFRICAMARATHONS for two weeks free!

Mental Preparation

The Comrades Marathon is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Preparing your mind for the long hours on the road, the pain of the climbs or descents, and the moments of self-doubt is crucial. Many runners find visualisation, mental toughness exercises, and meditation helpful.

Nutrition and Hydration

Dialling in your race-day nutrition and hydration strategy during training is key. Given the length of the race, you’ll need to refuel consistently with energy gels, sports drinks, and possibly solid food. Practising this during your long runs will help you determine what works best for your body.

5. Race Day Essentials

Timing and Cutoffs

The Comrades Marathon has strict timing cutoffs at various points along the route, as well as an overall 12-hour cutoff to complete the race. Missing any of these cutoffs means disqualification, so it’s important to pace yourself carefully.

What to Carry

Most runners carry essentials like energy gels, salt tablets, and pain relievers in a waist belt or vest. We also have an Africa Marathons aid station at 60kms where you can top up! Additionally, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are advisable to protect against the South African sun. The weather can vary, so be prepared for anything from cool early morning temperatures to intense midday heat.

Support Stations

The race features numerous support stations providing water, sports drinks, and food. However, it’s wise to carry your own hydration and nutrition, especially if you have specific preferences or dietary needs.

Race Strategy

Given the race’s length and difficulty, pacing is critical. Experienced Comrades runners recommend starting slow, particularly on the up run, where the temptation to charge ahead can lead to burnout on the later hills. Keep an eye on your pace and conserve energy for the final third of the race.

6. Post-Race: What to Expect

The Finish Line

Crossing the finish line of the Comrades Marathon is a moment you’ll never forget. Whether you’re finishing within the cutoffs or just before the gun goes off at 12 hours, the sense of achievement is immense.

Medals and Recognition

Finishers receive a medal based on their finishing time. The coveted gold medal is awarded to the top 10 male and female finishers, while silver, Bill Rowan, bronze, and Vic Clapham medals are awarded to those who finish in progressively longer times. These medals are treasured mementoes of your achievement.

Recovery

Recovery after Comrades is essential. Plan for adequate rest, gentle stretching, and perhaps a sports massage to help your muscles recover from the intense effort. It’s also a good time to reflect on your experience and begin considering whether you’ll return for another run.

Conclusion

Entering and completing the Comrades Marathon is a monumental achievement that requires dedication, preparation, and a strong will. The journey from registration to the finish line is filled with challenges, but the rewards—both personal and physical—are unparalleled. Whether you’re seeking the ultimate test of endurance or the thrill of being part of a storied tradition, the Comrades Marathon is an experience that will stay with you forever and we’d love to have you along for the ride with Africa Marathons.

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Want to enter Comrades Marathon 2025?

Unfortunately, there are no more spots available for Comrades 2024. Let Africa Marathons organise your trip and entry to the iconic Comrades Marathon 2025. To find out more and enter the race, please email us at [email protected]. You can also contact us using the button below to join. We look forward to welcoming you to South Africa.

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