The Comrades Marathon, which is being run today for the 96th time since its inception in 1921 in honour of World War 1 veterans, epitomises the best of the South African spirit of endurance, adaptability, tenacity, stamina and fellowship.
The world’s biggest and oldest ultramarathon, its history reflects the changes in our society over the past century. It has moved with the times, becoming more inclusive and representative over the years.
It wasn’t always the truly national showcase that it is now. It was not until 1975 that blacks and women were allowed to compete officially, although Robert Mtshali was the first unofficial black entrant in 1935. In 1989, Samuel Tshabalala became the first black winner. And 100 years ago this year, Frances Hayward, wife of multiple Comrades winner Wally Hayward, became the first woman to enter, albeit unofficially.
Initially it was run on Empire Day, May 24, but this was later switched to Republic Day, May 31. In 1995 the date was changed to June 16 to commemorate the Soweto uprising.
It’s a race that showcases the world’s top ultramarathon athletes, but it also demonstrates the extraordinary endurance and tenacity of ordinary men and women
In 1981 Bruce Fordyce, a spry young student from Wits University who first ran the Comrades in 1978, racked up the first of his nine victories in the race. He had considered boycotting the event because the organisers had linked it with the 20th anniversary of the apartheid republic, but he then ran wearing a black armband. No-one has equalled his record of nine wins.
Since South Africa’s readmission to world sport, the number of foreign runners has grown. This year, 2,354 foreign runners from 84 countries will be among those at starting line when the race begins at 5.30am.
It’s a race that showcases the world’s top ultramarathon athletes, but it also demonstrates the extraordinary endurance and tenacity of ordinary men and women.
The race is being run today in a country in crisis. But the Comrades, its dependable staging disrupted only by World War 2 and the pandemic, serves as a beacon of hope amid the turmoil. The runners set an example for us all; their determination and endurance inspire a nation beset by confusion and adversity.
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