The Comrades Marathon 2025 will feature first-ever two-wave start for a smoother race experience.
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The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has announced two separate race starts for the 2025 race.
The move aims to enhance the experience of participants in the world’s largest and oldest ultramarathon, while also improving safety, efficiency, and overall race management.
The 98th edition of The Ultimate Human Race, set for Sunday June 8, will see athletes starting in two waves at the Pietermaritzburg City Hall. This year’s race marks the 49th Down Run, concluding at Durban’s People’s Park within the usual 12-hour cut-off time.
To accommodate the growing number of participants, the first wave of runners will set off at 5.45am, followed by a second wave at 6am. The staggered start is designed to ease congestion along the route, allowing runners to move more freely and maintain their pace without bottlenecks at the beginning of the race.
“This reflects our commitment to continuously improving safety measures and the overall race experience for our participants. We believe the two starts will provide a safer, more enjoyable, and efficient race day for everyone involved,” said CMA general manager Alain Dalais.
The decision was reached following extensive consultation with experts and thorough deliberations by the CMA’s Race Advisory Committee.
“Organisers have explored various options to ensure the best possible approach for all participants, reinforcing the Comrades Marathon’s reputation as a world-class event,” said Dalais.
The CMA is advising all runners to familiarise themselves with the new starting procedures. Previous seeding placements will not apply, and specific details regarding the new process will be communicated in due course. While roadworks have delayed the finalisation of the official race route, CMA assures athletes that updates will be provided in time for proper preparation.