The Comrades Marathon, widely regarded as the most prestigious ultramarathon in
the world, returns for its 98th edition on Sunday, 08 June 2025. This year’s event will
be the longest down run in Comrades history, starting at the City Hall in
Pietermaritzburg and finishing in Durban, covering approximately 89 kilometres.
The North West Province will be defending the Comrades Marathon down run record
of 5:14:01, achieved by Tete Morena Dijana in 2023.
MEC Galebekwe Tsotso Tlhapi stated:
“North West is the province of champions when it comes to long-distance runners,
particularly in the Comrades Marathon. Several athletes from the province have
achieved success in this iconic ultra-marathon, including Andrew Kelehe, Gift Kelehe,
Edward Mothibi, and Tete Dijana. We are not expecting miracles, but the usual.”
The Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation (ACSR) is providing logistical
support to 169 athletes participating in the 2025 Comrades Marathon. This support
includes transportation, accommodation, and meals, and is valued at over one million
Rand. A dedicated team of departmental officials will also be on the ground to support
the runners throughout the race — both at the finishing line and along the route.
Athlete representation from districts is as follows:
Dr Kenneth Kaunda District – 46 athletes
Ngaka Modiri Molema District – 43 athletes
Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District – 36 athletes
Bojanala District – 44 athletes
Most of these athletes come from disadvantaged communities where access to
competitive sporting platforms is limited. The Department remains committed to creating equitable access, developing talent, and contributing to social transformation
through sport.
This initiative forms part of the Department’s broader mandate to re-engage
communities, rebuild competitive sport structures, and restore a culture of excellence
and participation in sport.
We take this opportunity to wish all our athletes the best of luck and urge them to make
the North West Province proud
MEDIA INVITATION – COMRADES MARATHON SEND-OFF EVENT
Date: 05 June 2025
Time: 15:00
Venue: Mmabatho Stadium (VIP Boardroom)
Issued by:
Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation
Media Enquiries:
Shuping Sebolecwe
📞 018 388 2764