Annual Long-Distance Running Event: Comrades Marathon 2022
The Comrades Marathon 2022 is set to take place on 28 August, attracting runners from all corners of the globe. This iconic race, capped at 23,000 participants, will start at the City Hall in Pietermaritzburg and conclude at the Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
The marathon, renowned for its challenging terrain and "The Big Five" set of hills, will be a down run, spanning 90km. Runners will need to complete the course within a 12-hour time limit to qualify as finishers.
To participate in the Comrades Marathon 2022, an athlete must be over the age of 20 and have completed an official recognized marathon (42.2km) in under 5 hours. The qualifying race must be sanctioned by the Comrades Marathon Association and completed within a specified qualifying period, which usually starts in August of the previous year and ends in May of the current year.
In recent years, the qualifying time has been around 4:50 minutes. However, for the most accurate and up-to-date qualification requirements, it's recommended to check the official Comrades Marathon website or contact the organizers directly.
Throughout the race, runners will find approximately 40 official refreshment stations along the route to help them maintain their energy levels. In addition, there will be about 8 physiotherapy and first aid stations located at strategic points to ensure the safety and well-being of the participants.
The Comrades Marathon is more than just a race; it's a tradition. Runners who have completed 10 races wear a green number, while those who have completed 9 marathons wear yellow numbers. Members of the Green Number Club, an exclusive band of individuals who have a special relationship with the Comrades Marathon, are recorded in the Green Number Club Roll of Honour. The criteria for inclusion in this prestigious club include having 3 wins, 5 golds, or 10 plus medals.
This year, the race's halfway mark at Drummond is sponsored by Hollywoodbets, and the official race number is sponsored by the same company. Hollywoodbets has also taken on the role of sponsoring the event's highest point, which is near the Umlaas Road interchange, standing 870m above sea level.
As the Comrades Marathon 2022 approaches, the anticipation builds. This iconic event is more than a test of physical endurance; it's a celebration of camaraderie, determination, and the human spirit. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a first-timer, the Comrades Marathon 2022 promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Sports enthusiasts can explore a different challenge this year as the Comrades Marathon 2022 sponsor, Hollywoodbets, also offers sports betting and casino games. While running the grueling 90km course, participants can ponder their luck on the side, with the sponsor's betting options serving as an intriguing distraction during the race's remainder.
