Thousands donated to Comrades relief fund

Over R50 000 has been donated to the Comrades Marathon Runners Relief Fund in the first four hours of the #Comrades2024 entry process.

The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) initiated the fund to assist disadvantaged athletes to be part of the world’s biggest, oldest and most famous ultramarathon.

CMA chairperson, Mqondisi Ngcobo, urged runners, supporters and the public to contribute to the Runners Relief Fund.

“Through this fund, we have allocated R1m to reduce the entry fee by up to 50% for 1 500 South African entrants,” said Ngcobo.

“In line with our Runners First initiative, the CMA has looked at ways of improving the runner experience and also assisting disadvantaged athletes in making their Comrades Marathon entry affordable and within reach if they are unemployed or have a total annual income of less than R30 000.

“It is heartening to see how well this initiative has been received on the opening day of entries.”

Any person or business can donate to the Comrades Runners Relief Fund. To donate click on https://comrades.com/race-info/comrades-relief-fund

A total of 379 athletes have applied for relief from the fund so far.

Runners wishing to apply need to note the process:

• On entry, a runner who would like to apply for relief will select the option at the bottom of the screening page.

• They will then be informed of the T&Cs around the relief and will select a box stating they understand the rules.

• These rules include paying 50% of the entrance fee upon entering, and if unsuccessful, would be required to pay the entry fee difference by February 29 (partial payment date cut off) or have the option to apply for a refund (less entry service fees).

• Should an unsuccessful entrant fail to apply for a refund or make the entry balance payment by February 29, they will forfeit the initial 50% payment.

Current requirements as outlined:

• An entrant must be unemployed and/or earn less than R30 000 per year.

If employed, an entrant has to provide the employer/s name and contact information.

• Preference will be given to an entrant who can provide proof of their income.

• Must be a South African citizen.

• An application form has to be completed and signed by a Commissioner of Oaths.

• A letter from the entrant’s club must accompany the application. The letter must confirm the entrant is a member of good standing and that the club supports the application.

• Applications will open on November 21 and the applicant must pay the initial 50% entry fee.

• Applications will close on December 11.

• The CMA reserves the right to verify the information submitted to support the application. Any applications which contain false information will not be considered.

For more information, visit www.comrades.com.

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