Comrades Marathon introduces two start times for a smoother race experience

In a historic move for the world-renowned Comrades Marathon, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has announced a major change for the 2025 edition of the race introducing two separate start times for participants. This new format, set to be implemented for the first time in the race’s 98-year history, aims to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and improve the overall experience for the thousands of runners who take part in "The Ultimate Human Race."

According to a media release, the 2025 Comrades Marathon, which takes place on Sunday, 8 June, will feature a staggered start at the traditional Pietermaritzburg City Hall. The first wave of runners will begin their journey towards Durban at 5:45am, followed by the second wave at 6am.

CMA General Manager Alain Dalais emphasised that the change comes after extensive planning and consultation with experts, ensuring that the race maintains its high safety standards while allowing runners more space to move freely.

"This change reflects our commitment to continuously improving the safety measures and the overall race experience for our participants," said Dalais.

"We believe the two starts will provide a safer, more enjoyable, and efficient race day for everyone involved."

The CMA’s Race Advisory Committee explored multiple options before finalizing the dual-start system. The decision was driven by the increasing number of participants and the need to prevent congestion on the route. By allowing runners to start in two waves, the CMA aims to minimize bottlenecks and ensure a smoother flow of athletes.

What runners need to know

No Seeding System: The traditional seeding process will not apply for 2025, and more details about how runners will be grouped will be communicated soon.

Route Confirmation Pending: Due to ongoing roadworks, the exact route is yet to be finalized but will be announced in time for participants to plan accordingly.

Official Updates: Athletes are encouraged to stay informed through the Comrades Marathon website and official communication channels for updates on race procedures, seeding, qualifying criteria, and cut-off times. This year's race marks the 49th Comrades Down Run, covering the challenging route from Pietermaritzburg to Durban’s People’s Park, with runners given 12 hours to complete the journey.

With just over three months to go, the excitement is building as Comrades organizers prepare to welcome athletes from around the world. The introduction of the two-wave start signals a new era for the legendary ultramarathon, reinforcing its status as a world-class event that continues to evolve for the benefit of its participants.

IOL Sport