RUNNING BATTLE: Why Comrades Marathon Association doubled down on split from KZN Athletics
After months of bitter disputes with KwaZulu-Natal Athletics, members of the Comrades Marathon Association have voted for a ‘Comrades-first’ approach and not to re-affiliate with the provincial body. However, operating outside the official athletics structure could create practical complications.
The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has made a firm stand in its split from KwaZulu-Natal Athletics (KZNA), opting to advance as an independent entity rather than re-affiliating with the provincial body. Over 1,000 CMA members recently voted against re-affiliation at a special general meeting, signaling a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute with KZNA. The decision, while not altering the association's existing withdrawal of affiliation, solidifies the CMA's commitment to proceeding independently.
The dispute centers on two main issues: the CMA's desire to affiliate directly with Athletics South Africa (ASA) and their disagreement over race levies owed to KZNA. In November 2025, the CMA withdrew its special membership from KZNA and sought direct affiliation with ASA, bypassing KZNA's approval. However, ASA rejected this request, stating that direct affiliation is not constitutionally possible under their governance structure.
Additionally, KZNA claims the CMA owes over R4 million in race levies from the 2026 race, a figure the CMA contests. KZNA has withheld approval for the 2027 race date until the levy issue is resolved. Despite these challenges, the CMA's chairperson, Mark Leathers, remains confident that the association has the resources and expertise to continue delivering a world-class event.
While legally, there may be no impediment to the CMA proceeding without ASA affiliation or levy payments, practical complications could arise. These may include issues related to athlete licensing, qualification standards, technical officials, rankings, and records. Nonetheless, the CMA remains committed to staging the centenary Comrades Marathon in 2027, scheduled for June 13th, despite the ongoing disagreements.
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