FOR the first time in the history of the Comrades Marathon, there will be staggered race starts as the countdown to the 49th Comrades Marathon Down Run draws closer.

This is an effort to reduce congestion on the course, say organisers.

The world’s biggest, oldest and most famous ultra-marathon, will feature two start times, 15 minutes apart, at 05:45 and 06:00.

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“This staggered approach will help manage the flow of runners and reduce congestion on the course. Many experts have been consulted and lots of behind the scenes work has been undertaken which have led to this year’s two-start decision,” the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) said in a statement.

The two starts are designed to improve the overall runner experience by providing more space and reducing bottlenecks at the beginning of the race, explained the CMA.

“The CMA encourages all participants to familiarise themselves with the new starting procedures and to plan accordingly. Previous seeding will not be relevant and more specific communications around the process will be issued as soon as possible. Owing to ongoing roadworks, there is a delay in the finalisation of the Comrades route but this will be confirmed timeously in order for athletes to plan properly.”

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