WITH under 150 days to race day, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has announced a significant change to the qualifying criteria for this year’s 98th Comrades Marathon.

Going forward, the qualifying time for the standard 42.2km marathon has been adjusted to five hours for all participants.

This change is aimed at making the Comrades Marathon more inclusive and accessible to a broader range of runners, encouraging more athletes to qualify for and participate in the event on Sunday, June 8.

The decision was made after consideration and consultation with various stakeholders, including athletes, coaches, and running clubs.

Also read: Comrades entry cap of 23 000 reached

“We are thrilled to make the Comrades Marathon more accessible to a wider range of runners. This change reflects our commitment to inclusivity and the growth of the sport,” said CMA chairperson Mqondisi Ngcobo.

“The Ultimate Human Race continues to uphold its tradition of challenging endurance and celebrating the spirit of camaraderie and perseverance. We believe that this adjustment will inspire more runners to participate and experience the unique challenge and camaraderie that the Comrades Marathon offers.”

The final date for submission of qualifying details is Monday, May 5.

Athletes are required to submit their qualifying race and time, running club details, provincial club licence number and fill in the medical questionnaire.

Runners wanting to update their details must log into their entry profile via www.comrades.com.

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