In a move symbolic of the race’s renewed commitment toward being runner-centric and up-to-date with international trends, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) will from 2024 publish and continue to make use of videographic Final Race Instructions.
CMA Race & Operations Manager, Ann Ashworth says, “We are the first race in South Africa and probably one of the first road races in the world to offer the Comrades Marathon Final Race Instructions in a video format. We understand that many runners do not enjoy reading the lengthy 4-page Final Race Instructions document filled with very small writing and are therefore pleased to be leading the way on this.”
“We believe that several of the problems experienced in 2023 could have been avoided if participants were more familiar with the race rules and so the use of an easy-to-digest and user-friendly medium for communicating these rules and the final race instructions is critical to avoiding a repeat of what happened last year.”
In line with being inclusive and catering to different language groups, the video will also include translations in isiZulu with a plan to integrate additional languages over time.
Runners can look forward to seeing some familiar faces featured in the video with the likes of CMA Chairperson, Mqondisi Ngcobo and road running commentator, Cuan Walker taking participants through the pre-race guide.
As with the printed Final Race Instructions, the video will serve as an invaluable resource, aimed at informing and educating the Comrades Marathon athlete as to the do’s and don’ts of participating in The Ultimate Human Race, as well as including a wide range of need-to-know information and race details.
The video will feature on the official Comrades Marathon website (www.comrades.com), social media platforms, the Comrades App, including a link in the Runners Newsletter and a mailshot to all #Comrades2024 participants. The video will also be streamed repeatedly in the Theatre of Dreams at the Comrades Marathon Expo.