UPDATES ON QUALIFYING FOR THE 2025 COMRADES MARATHON
As athletes gear up for the 2025 race season and get ready to qualify for #Comrades2025, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has some important updates and changes to share with the Comrades running community. These adjustments aim to enhance the race experience and ensure fair and exciting competition for all participants.
Sub 5-Hour Marathon Recognition
Runners who can verify that they have completed a standard 42.2km marathon in under 5 hours between 10 June 2024 and 1 January 2025 will have their times retrospectively acknowledged. This recognition will also grant them entry to the 2025 race.
Ultra Race Qualifying Times
Using the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon as an example, the qualifying time remains at 7 hours (a pace of 7m 30s). However, if a runner crosses the marathon mat in under 5 hours during the race, they can use that time as a qualifier. The CMA is currently evaluating whether it makes sense to adjust ultra qualifying times by a few minutes.
Here are some examples of average qualifying times:
- Marathon: 5 hours qualifying time = 7m 8s
- 50km Run: Average pace for 6 hours qualifying time = 7m 12s
- 60km Run: Average pace for 7 hours 40 minutes qualifying time = 7m 40s
- 64km Run: Average pace for 8 hours 20 minutes qualifying time = 7m 48s
- Comrades Marathon: Average pace to finish in 12 hours = 8m 4s
As the distance increases, runners naturally slow down. The CMA believes that the current ultra times are appropriate, but we will conduct further studies and report back in due course.
Comrades Qualifying times/distances
| 2010 | 2025 | Race Distance |
| 5.00 | 5.00 | 42.20 |
| 6.00 | 6.00 | 48.00 |
| 6.00 | 6.10 | 50.00 |
| 6.30 | 6.30 | 52.00 - 54.00 |
| 7.00 | 7.00 | 56.00 |
| 7.40 | 7.30 | 60.00 |
| 8.20 | 8.20 | 64.00 |
| 8.30 | 8.30 | 68.00 |
| 10.40 | 10.35 | 80.00 |
| 12.00 | 12.00 | 90.00 |
| 13.30 | 13.35 | 100.00 |
Batch Allocation Based on Qualifying Times
Runners will be allocated to seeding batches based on their qualifying times. The CMA is considering using additional metrics, such as qualifying times from shorter distances, to create a more scientific approach to batch allocation. This will help separate faster runners from slower ones. More details on this will be shared in due course.
Medical Impact of 5-Hour Qualification
There is no empirical evidence to suggest that changing the qualification time to 5 hours would have any negative medical impact.
Route Cut-Off Times
A halfway cut-off time of 6 ½ hours is being considered, as it was back in 1968. This aligns with the tradition and ensures that runners can still finish within the 12-hour limit. More information on other route cut-off points will be communicated in upcoming race information advisories.
Safety and Traffic Control Improvements
The CMA acknowledges the challenges faced during the 2024 event. The CMA is working to improve safety, traffic control, and spectator access at the start and finish areas. Creating a safe environment for everyone is a top priority for the CMA.
Regular Announcements and Updates
Runners can expect regular announcements to keep them informed about changes to this year's race, including start times, route cut-offs, and finish details. This continuous communication will maintain interest and excitement as the race approaches in June.
Clear Communication for the Best Running Experience
A significant part of the CMA's mission is to ensure clear communication with all runners through various media channels. Our goal is to prepare runners for their best running experience to date.
Stay tuned for more updates and get ready for an incredible running of the 98th Comrades Marathon on Sunday, 8 June 2025!
More Than A Race – Isiko Mpilo
