HISTORY IN THE MAKING: CHAIR & VICE CHAIR TO RUN TOGETHER IN 2025
The Comrades Board Chairperson and Vice Chairperson will both run in the 2025 Down Run, marking a historic first for the Comrades Marathon. This extraordinary action demonstrates their dedication to the race's ethos and serves as a motivating model for both the community and runners. It's also worth noting that every member of the Comrades Marathon board has run the race, collectively holding over 100 medals, including gold and silver. This diverse group includes charity fundraisers and runners who have finished close to the 12-hour cut-off, truly representing the spectrum of Comrades participants.
Chairperson Mqondisi Ngcobo will be tackling his seventh Comrades Marathon, demonstrating his remarkable dedication to this gruelling ultramarathon. His extensive experience on the course will undoubtedly be an asset as he embarks on this unique journey alongside his colleague.
"Running my seventh Comrades alongside our Vice Chairperson Mark Leathers is a true privilege. It symbolizes our shared commitment to the Comrades family and the values of courage and perseverance that this race embodies. I hope our participation inspires others to challenge themselves and embrace the spirit of camaraderie that makes Comrades so special."
Vice Chairperson Mark Leathers, who bravely completed his first Comrades Marathon last year, will be returning for his second consecutive race. His participation highlights the inclusive nature of the event and proves that with determination and training, anyone can conquer the Comrades Marathon.
“As someone deeply connected to the spirit of the Comrades Marathon, running this race alongside our chairperson is not only an extreme honour, but embodies the shared passion that defines our community. I hope this moment inspires all participants and supporters to recognize that, whether as leaders or fellow runners, we are all part of a larger journey marked by perseverance, camaraderie, and the relentless pursuit of excellence,” said Mark Leathers.
"The participation of our Chairperson and Vice Chairperson in the 2025 Comrades Marathon is a powerful testament to their leadership and dedication," said Alain Dalais, General Manager of the Comrades Marathon Association. "Their joint effort, along with the extensive running experience of the entire board, reflects the strength and accord of the Comrades Marathon Association. We are incredibly proud to support them in this remarkable endeavour."
The 2025 Down Run promises to be a special event, and the participation of the Chairperson and Vice Chair, along with the board's collective representation of all Comrades runners, adds an extra layer of significance. As they cross the finish line, they will not only achieve a personal milestone but also make history in the Comrades Marathon.
The 98th Comrades Marathon will be a Down Run on Sunday, 8 June 2025, starting at the Pietermaritzburg City Hall and finishing 12 hours later at Durban’s Peoples Park, with a race distance of approximately 89km. This will be the 49th Comrades Down Run.
