By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The South African Police Services (SAPS) announced on Saturday, that 356 police officers are set to run The Ultimate Human Race, Comrades Marathon in Kwazulu-Natal (KZN).
This year’s up-run will begin at the Durban City Hall and end in Pietermaritzburg.
Police said this year’s number increased from the 218 police members who endured the 2023 down-run.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, Deputy National Commissioner Lieutenant-General Lineo Nkhoua, Provincial Commissioner of KZN, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi attended a formal send-off parade for the participating officers.
The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) announced more flexible cut-off times for segments of this year’s marathon.
n past editions of the marathon, the initial cut-off point failed to account for the time it took many of the back runners to cross the start line at the race’s crowded start.
CMA said in a statement: “Following receipt of numerous appeals and information related to the cut-offs to be implemented at the 2024 Comrades Marathon, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has revised the cut-off times to be applied during this year’s race.”
This move signals increased efforts by the CMA to be both runner-focused and responsive to fresh ideas and input related to the growth and improvement of this iconic national event.
The race starts at 5.30 am in Durban and ends 12 hours later in Pietermaritzburg, with more than 22 000 runners involved.
Masemola said, “All of SAPS Management is incredibly proud of our members’ commitment to fitness and willingness to take on this extraordinary challenge.
“We are cheering you on and wishing you the very best as you race to the finish line. May your journey be filled with strength, determination, and a sense of accomplishment.”
He added, “that the SAPS members’ participation in this prestigious event is not only a testament to their physical endurance but also a reflection of the dedication and discipline that they bring to their roles within the South African Police Service.”
The first Comrades Marathon was run on Empire Day, May 24, 1921, when 34 runners lined up in front of the Pietermaritzburg City Hall to commence a race to Durban to commemorate the spirit and camaraderie of the soldiers who fought in the Great War.