There are only a few days to go before the 96th Comrades Marathon on June 11, but 25 athletes have already been disqualified after supplying false qualifying information.

The disqualified athletes will not be permitted to participate in the 2023 Comrades Marathon, and they will be suspended from entering the race in 2024 and 2025.

Commenting on the matter, Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) race director Rowyn James says athletes who attempt to cheat will tarnish the name of the race.

“Runners found to have been cheating in any way, be it via submitting false qualifying details or in the race itself, are tarnishing the reputation of the sport and the Comrades Marathon Association, as well as disrespecting fellow athletes,” he shares.

In light of this, the CMA suspended 25 entrants and notified their running clubs’ management of the disqualifications.

“The CMA will not tolerate cheating in any form. It is incumbent upon every athlete to honour the ethical code and ethos of the sport. We promote fair sport, and to this end are continuing with investigations into other alleged transgressors, the outcome of which will be announced in due course,” explains James.

The suspended entrants are members of various clubs, including Phuma KZN AC, Protea Striders, Save Orion AC, Sasolburg AC, Celtic Harriers, Chillie Running Club CG, Chiltern AC, Collegians Harriers, Diepkloof AC, Irene Athletics Club, Jozi X Training, Run Walk For Life NWN, Run Zone AC, SAPG AC, Sunward Striders AC, Team Vitality Club KZN, Thorn Tree Striders, Top Runner AC and Woodview AC.