More than 20,000 runners took part in South Africa’s latest edition of the legendary Comrades Marathon, the world’s largest and oldest ultramarathon. The race was first staged in 1921 by 34 men, all of them white, who sought to honor fallen World War I soldiers. It was restricted to white men until its 1975 desegregation, a milestone followed by decades of symbolic moments, including Sam Tshabalala’s landmark win in 1989 as the first Black champion. Since then, it has grown into a beloved national tradition that bridges South Africa’s social divides, if only temporarily, and draws runners from every background. This year’s “up run” from Durban to Pietermaritzburg challenged runners with roughly 1,800 meters of climbing over nearly 55 miles. Along the route, spectators, running clubs, and volunteers created an atmosphere of solidarity and celebration. For many participants, finishing the race represents more than athletic achievement—it is a testament to resilience, community, and deeply personal motivation.
The Guardian