Get ready for the 2023 Comrades Marathon: A global running event in Durban
Join thousands of runners and spectators in Durban on Sunday June 8 for the 2023 Comrades Marathon, a prestigious event that promises to boost the local economy and showcase the city as a premier
The Comrades Marathon, taking place on Sunday June 8, is expected to attract thousands of athletes and spectators to Durban shores. The race will be run from the City Hall in Pietermaritzburg to Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Image: Supplied
The 98th edition of the Comrades Marathon will take place on Sunday June 8.
eThekwini Municipality will co-host the event and plans are in place to ensure a successful race.
The city and its partners are excited to host about 24 000 runners from around the globe and 35 000 anticipated spectators of the 'UltimateHuman Race'. eThekwini Municipality communication spokesperson, Vukani Mbhele, said hosting the event will have a direct spend of R275 308 million and GDP contribution of R681 million, with 1 800 jobs created.
"The 98 th Comrades Marathon will start at the Pietermaritzburg City Hall at 5.30am and finish 12 hours later at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium People’s Park in Durban. This will be the 49th down run," said Mr Mbhele.
"eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, said hosting a race of this magnitude continues to position Durban as the most preferred sporting destination.
"eThekwini is proud to host this global event, which attracts participants from all over South Africa and across the world. We are looking forward to welcoming the influx of tourists to the city and we are ready to roll-out the red carpet for runners and spectators. We always do our best in ensuring that our visitors’ stay is an unforgettable one, affirming Durban as a destination of choice for major events," said Mayor Xaba.
"Motorists and all road users are urged to use alternative routes as roads along the Comrades Marathon route will be affected by road closures. Furthermore, police visibility will be heightened in all the affected intersections to ensure safety of runners, spectators and motorists.
The Mayor invited people to come and cheer for the brave men and women taking part in the marathon along the route and to offer them support during the race. He said events of this magnitude provide exposure to national and international media platforms, which further profiles destination Durban.
"Hosting such major international events brings us much joy, as it is a strong indication that we are among other international cities known for successfully delivering memorable sporting events. We will continue to leverage on such events as they boost the local economy and drive tourism," said Mayor Xaba.