‘Don’t lose hope’: More than 28,000 runners miss out on Comrades Marathon entries

The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has announced that despite 42,802 applications received, over 28,000 runners were unable to secure entries for the 100th edition of the annual race. While more than half the applicants missed out, the CMA has urged disappointed runners to remain hopeful, as two more chances will be provided to secure a spot in next year's event.

The CMA confirmed that 13,481 runners had successfully booked their places during entry windows for members, nine-time finishers, or charity fundraisers. During the general ballot, which closed on Tuesday, 14,519 entries were available, but the high number of applications left 28,283 runners without an entry. Should any entrants fail to complete the payment process, a redraw will be held, and if an entrant opts out of the race, their spot can be made available to other runners through the substitution process.

Race director Sue Forge encouraged those who were not selected in the initial draw not to lose hope, stating that any available places will be returned to the ballot pool and allocated during redraws. All unsuccessful applicants will automatically remain eligible for these redraws. Up to 28,000 entry spots will be made available for the 2027 Comrades Marathon, a decrease from the record-breaking number of entries this year.