Thousands of runners will compete in the Comrades Marathon this weekend, but many other individuals will also play key roles. Picture: Neil McCartney
Logistically, the Comrades Marathon is one of the most complex mass participation events that take place in the world of sport.
Held between Pietermaritzburg and Durban, the ‘down’ run on Sunday involves thousands of runners, volunteers, security staff and medical experts.
We take a look at some of the numbers which tell the story of the annual ultra-marathon.
1 – air rescue helicopter to assist with medical emergencies
8 – medical stations along the route with qualified medical staff and physios
ALSO READ: All you need to know about the Comrades Marathon
14 – ambulances provided by Netcare 911
40 – beds in the physio tent at the finish venue
43 – fully stocked refreshment stations along the route
62 – bailer buses to pick up athletes who miss cut-offs or are unable to continue to the finish
85 – doctors and nurses assisting at the medical facility at the finish
89.885 – distance of this year’s race in kilometres
101 – years since the inaugural race was held in 1921
ALSO READ: Fordyce’s Comrades focus: Start like a coward, finish like a hero
200 – community marshals assisting security and law enforcement officials
1 000 – marshals directing runners along the course
3 000 – volunteers working at the refreshment stations
15 956 – entries received for this weekend’s race
Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.