91st COMRADES MARATHON – 28 August 2022
Pietermaritzburg to Durban – Down Run 90kms
Start Time 05h30 / Finish Time 17h30
Contact www.comrades.com for race entry
Comrades Ultra Marathon is iconic and arguably the Ultimate Human Race and one of the biggest challenges to runners today. The event was first run in 1921 in honour of the fallen Comrades of World War one. Besides the years 1941-1945 (2nd world war) when the event did not take place, it has taken place every year since. 2022 will be the 95th marathon.
Runners take on the challenge to complete approx. 90kms in 12 hours or less. Whilst passing through various points along the route within the specified cut off times, failing which, they are withdrawn from the race. Runners are well looked after along the route with refreshment stations every 2 to 3km stocked with water, Coke and a sports energy drink, as well as various edible snacks such as oranges, biscuits and chocolate. The event attracts many spectators who line the streets along the way offering moral support and refreshments as well! The race is run gun to gun and there are various medals, depending on finish time.
Medals
Distance of race qualifying table
| Gold |
First 10 Men and Women |
| Wally Hayward |
Position 11 to sub 6hrs 00mins |
| Isavel Roche-Kelly |
Awarded to any women who runs a sub 7hrs 30mins |
| Silver |
6hrs 00min to sub 7hrs 30 mins |
| Bill Rowan |
7hrs 30 min to sub 9hrs 00min |
| Robert Mtshali |
09hrs 00min to sub 10hrs 00min |
| Bronze |
10hrs 00min to sub 11hrs 00min |
| Vic Clapham |
11hrs 00min to sub 12hrs 00min |
| Back 2 Back |
Awarded to novices that complete an “Up” and “Down” run consecutively |
Good running fitness and mental strength required. The field is capped at 25,000 runners and a qualifying time, finishing a registered marathon in under five hours, is required to enter. Don’t delay this race sells out early. www.comrades.com for more details. The route alternates direction each year. 2016 is a “Down Run”, starting in Pietermaritzburg and ending in Durban. The jury is still out as to which direction is easier with pros and cons for both. Most Comrades runners have a preference. Generally it’s thought the “Up Run” is kinder on the body and the “Down Run” has a more festive finish. Regardless of direction the race is filled with tough climbs and beautiful scenery. Along the way you will meet and chat to fellow runners from all walks of life and athletic abilities. It’s an emotional experience and rarely forgotten by those who have taken on the challenge. This is endurance running at its best!
