Watch video: VAC runners ready for Comrades Marathon challenge
VAC runners prepare for Comrades Marathon 2026, taking on the Ultimate Human Race this Sunday.
After months of dedication, early mornings, long training runs, and countless sacrifices, the moment has finally arrived. What began as a goal and a commitment has turned into an incredible journey of perseverance, discipline, and determination. Every kilometre covered, every challenge overcome, and every hour invested has led to this point.
The legendary Comrades Marathon takes place this Sunday, 14 June, and our runners are ready to take on the Ultimate Human Race. As race day approaches, excitement is building, and our runners stand ready to embrace the challenge, celebrate their hard work, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Start times
Group 1: 05:00
Group 2: 05:15
Group 3: 05:30
Track runners live
Family, friends, and supporters can follow our runners throughout race day by downloading the Official Comrades Marathon App. Simply search for a runner using their race number and track their progress every step of the way.
VAC runners and race numbers
| Runner | Race number | Comrades milestone |
| Simoné Potgieter | 14804 | Novice – first Comrades |
| Elizma Nortjé | 11482 | Novice – first Comrades |
| Simphiwe Buthelezi | 42594 | 18th Comrades |
| Paula Small | 55270 | 11th Comrades and, for the first time, with her Green number |
| PJ Du Toit | 49717 | Third Comrades |
| Lunganie Mthethwa | 17111 | Novice – first Comrades |
| Matt Cilliers | 55135 | Third Comrades |
| Jaco Booysen | 20733 | Back-to-back Comrades |
| Hlobie Madiba | 17908 | Fifth Comrades |
| Jabulani Ndwandwe | 26547 | Sixth Comrades |
| Nicole Landman | 23021 | Novice – first Comrades |
| Amanda Vergottini | 23177 | Sixth Comrades |
This year’s VAC team is a wonderful mix of first-time Comrades runners, experienced athletes, and seasoned veterans. From runners taking on their very first Ultimate Human Race to those reaching impressive milestones, each athlete has a unique story of commitment, sacrifice, and determination.
To all our runners: enjoy every moment, trust your training, and embrace the incredible atmosphere that makes Comrades so special. Whether you’re chasing a goal, a medal, or simply the finish line, remember that every step tells a story of dedication and perseverance.
Good luck, Team VAC! We are incredibly proud of you and will be cheering you on every step of the journey.
The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.



