Running News Daily

The world’s most iconic ultramarathon is set to captivate once again. On Sunday, June 8, thousands of runners will gather in South Africa for the 96th edition of the Comrades Marathon, a race that continues to define endurance, resilience, and tradition.

Held between the cities of Pietermaritzburg and Durban, this year’s event is a “down run,” covering approximately 87.7 kilometers (54.5 miles) with a net descent toward the finish at Kingsmead Stadium. But don’t be fooled—this course remains one of the most challenging tests in distance running, with punishing hills and unpredictable weather adding to the drama.

The Comrades Marathon is far more than a race. It’s a cultural phenomenon that draws over 20,000 runners from around the globe and inspires millions more who line the course or tune in from afar. From elite athletes chasing gold to first-timers fighting for a 12-hour finish, every participant adds a chapter to this legendary story.

To complete the 2025 Comrades Marathon within the strict 12-hour cutoff, runners must maintain an average pace of approximately 13 minutes and 19 seconds per mile, or 8 minutes and 17 seconds per kilometer, across the 87-kilometer (54.06-mile) course. While this may seem manageable to experienced marathoners, the Comrades route—with its relentless hills, varying terrain, and heat—makes even this pace a serious challenge. Consistent pacing, smart energy management, and mental toughness are crucial to reaching Kingsmead Stadium before the final gun signals the end of the race.

South Africa’s own Gerda Steyn, who smashed the women’s down run record in 2023 with a time of 5:44:54, is expected to return as a favorite. On the men’s side, all eyes are on Tete Dijana, the two-time champion looking to bounce back after a tough showing in 2024. International contenders will also line up, eager to challenge the homegrown champions on their turf.

The Comrades is known for its strict 12-hour cutoff, and it’s often the final moments—when exhausted runners sprint or crawl to beat the clock—that leave the most lasting impressions. Medals are earned not just through speed, but through heart.

The course, supported by cheering crowds and rich traditions, includes notable landmarks like Polly Shortts Hill, Inchanga, and the halfway mark at Drummond. Local spectators offer music, support, and refreshments, creating an atmosphere like no other in distance running.

Whether you’re chasing a personal best, a gold medal, or simply the finish line, the 2025 Comrades Marathon promises to be another unforgettable day in the global running calendar.