The countdown has begun as one of the most beautiful races in the world, the Comrades Marathon, will start in just over three days.
Over 21 000 runners are expected to take part in the ‘down run’ which starts at 5.30am outside the Pietermaritzburg City Hall and will finish at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
According to the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism Authority, the number of international runners has increased this year.
There are 370 more international athletes competing this year compared to last year. A total of 1 430 international entries were received and 554 from the rest of Africa. @ComradesRace @edtea_kzn @dbntourism @eThekwiniM pic.twitter.com/6vsLh6uQNB
— Tourism KZN (@TourismKZN) June 5, 2018
Over the years, the race has contributed to the province’s economic boost and 2018 is no different. Both the Comrades Marathon Association and Tourism KwaZulu-Natal are expecting a boost of at least R700 million this weekend.
Our acting CEO, Phindile Makwakwa said the Comrades Marathon was an important event for the province especially in terms of the economic impact. The Comrades Marathon Association confirmed that they predict an economic boost of up to R700 million for this year’s race. @edtea_kzn pic.twitter.com/zOKiqwAPXo
— Tourism KZN (@TourismKZN) June 5, 2018
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Athletes have 12 hours to finish the race. The route has a number of cut-off points that athletes have to reach within stipulated times.
Runners who manage to complete the race will be awarded the following medals according to their time of completion:
Gold medals
Awarded to the top 10 runners of both male and female categories
Wally Hayward medals
Medals are silver centred, circled by a gold ring, awarded to 11th position until 05:59:59
Silver medals
Awarded to athletes who complete the race within 06:00:00 to 07:29:59
Bill Rowan medals
Medals have a bronze centre, circled by a silver ring, awarded to athletes who complete the race within 07:30:00 to 08:59:59
Bronze medals
Awarded to athletes who complete the race within 09:00:00 to 10:59:59
Vic Clapham copper medals
Awarded to athletes who complete the race within 11:00:00 to 11:59:59
Do you have a loved one who will be participating this Sunday? Send your message of encouragement to them on our Facebook page.
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