The Comrades Marathon Association says preparations for the 95th Comrades Marathon are going according to plan.
The grueling 90-kilometre ultra-marathon will take place this Sunday, a so-called down run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban.
The marathon, dubbed the Ultimate Human Race, returns this year after a two-year break after the race was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The association’s spokesperson Delaine Cools says, “We have rolling road closures during the day from start to the finish and everything is in place. But if there’s any last minute or anything to be dealt with, it will be dealt with. We have engaged all the authorities to ensure the safety and all the runners will be catered for along that route.”
Meanwhile, excitement is mounting among runners who say they can’t wait for the gun to be fired to signal the start of the race.
About 1500 entrants are international runners, representing 70 countries.
Canadian runner Sabrina Wang says she’s arrived in Durban early to acclimatise to the weather conditions.
“Most of my training was at sea level and it involved climbing the mountains. We also came here early so we could climb Mt. Kilimanjaro to get the altitude training. We came here early to also do some hiking in addition to our training and see more of Africa.”
South Africa’s Ndukenhle Zulu says he’s leaving nothing to chance.
“We are prepared for it, basically this week is part of tapering, just easy jogs, relaxing, getting a lot of rest and making sure that your legs are ready for Sunday. We are carbo-loading which is basically putting enough carbs in your body to make sure you are able to sustain yourself for the distance,” adds Zulu.
VIDEO: Comrades Marathon offers seminars and roadshows to help athletes:
