Comrades Marathon South Africa

Unique test of endurance

The Comrades Marathon started in 1921 when 34 determined runners left Pietermaritzburg for Durban to commemorate their comrades who fell during the Great War. This traditional event has occurred every year, with the exception of the World War II years, and has grown from 34 to over 13 000 runners annually.

The Comrades Marathon (registration for Comrades 2013 is already at 18 000!) is a cherished national treasure and attracts thousands of runners, spectators and television viewers every year. The constitution of the race states that one of its primary aims is to "celebrate mankind's spirit over adversity".We invite you to come and participate in this great event and experience one of Africa’s greatest adventures.

Location

KwaZulu-Natal is often referred to as the "Garden Province" of South Africa, a province of extremes. The coastal regions being lush with green sub-tropical vegetation, the Midlands with its rolling grass hills and meandering lanes and finally the giant basalt peaks of the breathtaking Drakensberg Mountains. This is also home to the Zulu nation and the greatest ultra distance road race - the Comrades Marathon. The 2013 Comrades Marathon is a “up run”, starting in Durban at 05h30 and finishing in Pietermaritzburg at 17h30.

Route & Distance

It is an “UP RUN” starting at the City Hall in Durban and finishing at The Cricket Oval in Pietermaritzburg. The race distance is approximately 86.9km. The distance is subject to change and will be confirmed in the final race instructions.

Time Limits & Cut Offs

If you do not reach the following cut-off points within the required time, you will be asked to retire from the race and leave the road. YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO CONTINUE RUNNING. BONITAS RUNNERS RESCUE buses will be available to transport you to the finish. Athletes who fail to obey the race officials will be subject to disciplinary action and may be banned from participation in future Comrades Marathons.

The final cut-off is at 12hrs 00min (17h30) and if you have not reached the Finish, you must leave the route and retire from the race immediately.

Date: Sunday, 2 June 2013
Start: 05h30 in Durban
Finish: 17h30 in Pietermaritzburg
Distance: 86.96km - 54 miles