OPINION: Runners are upset, but Comrades organisers did everything they could to make it fair
With over 56,000 runners trying to enter the race, and only 28,000 spots available, the reality is that a lot of people are going to miss out.
Many runners are understandably upset about the Comrades Marathon, but it's important to recognize that organisers did everything they could to make the race fair. With the event celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2027, there was bound to be immense interest. Over 56,000 people applied for one of the limited 28,000 entries. While organisers increased the limit, two thirds of applicants still didn't make the cut.
This lack of participation understandably drew frustration, especially from long-time runners who were determined to be part of this historic event. In an attempt to create fairness and inclusivity, the Comrades Marathon Association implemented a ballot system, reserving separate entry windows for members and charity entrants. All other applicants entered the ballot, which was essentially a lottery.
Over 42,000 people entered this ballot, meaning two thirds would miss out. While it's disappointing for those who didn't get entries, nobody is entitled to run the race. The organisers tried their best to accommodate as many people as possible, but they simply couldn't. Those who didn't get an entry might still secure a spot with the redraw and substitution process, or they could try again next year.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
