For the first time since people began running under the Comrades’ banner, the famed race is switching things up when it comes to its start times to accommodate the Ultimate Human Race’s popularity.
South Africa (07 March 2025) — As the countdown begins to the 98th Comrades Marathon penciled in for June, big news for participants has dropped. For the first time ever, the Comrades is switching things up when it comes to its start times in a bid to make things smoother for runners!
In a statement released yesterday, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) shared that it will be introducing two race starts.
“For the first time in the history of The Ultimate Human Race, there will be a separate start for each of the two groups of athletes in this year’s race. However, they will both take place at the traditional Pietermaritzburg City Hall which is the start venue of the 49th Comrades Marathon Down Run,” the CMA wrote.
This means that race day will unfold by means of staggered starts. The first group will kick off at 5:45 am, while the second group will launch at 6 am.
“Various race start options have also been explored at great length by the CMA’s Race Advisory Committee with the change expected to enhance safety and allow runners to maintain their pace more comfortably,” the CMA adds.
“The two starts are designed to improve the overall runner experience by providing more space and reducing bottlenecks at the beginning of the race.”
CMA General Manager Alain Dalais said that the change aims to provide a safer, more enjoyable and more efficient race day.
All participants are encouraged to plan according to the new starting procedure, with the finalisation of the Comrades route set to be confirmed following delays due to ongoing roadwork.
The CMA adds that previous seeding is no longer relevant and more specifics regarding start times switching up will be communicated.
Those gearing up to take part in the Ultimate Human Race on 8 June to support a charity or initiative are welcome to share their plans with us at Good Things Guy. Get in touch via stories@goodthingsguy.com.
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