By Bongekile Gumede
The Comrades Marathon Association recently announced that it will be offering a facility to support the participation of financially disadvantaged runners in the Comrades Marathon 2022.
The association said it has implemented the Underprivileged Runners Programme through which disadvantaged runners will be provided with a comfortable mattress and blanket to rest as well as food to eat the night before and on the night of the Comrades Marathon, at the YMCA in Alan Paton Street, Pietermaritzburg, behind the Sasol filling station.
Also in preparation of the run, Comrades Marathon Race Director, Rowyn James, went out on 20 July with DoT, RTI and Msunduzi traffic for the route inspection to make sure runners and supporters have a safe passage on race day. He said that with the return of the Comrades Marathon on 28 August comes the most popular running expo in Africa, iShay’ buya.
“The three-day Comrades Expo is the largest running-related exhibition in South Africa and runs from 25 to 27 August at the Durban International Convention Centre, where more than 100 exhibitors will be showcasing their latest products and services in running gear, nutrition, technology and more to over 50 000 visitors. Spread over 5 000 square metres, this year’s expo is expected to be another innovative and exciting affair with 70% of exhibitor stands already taken up.
“The Comrades Expo is more than just an expo, this is where athletes from around South Africa and all over the world showcase the spirit of camaraderie by sharing their experiences and stories about the Ultimate Human Race before the big day. This is a not-to-be-missed running expo as it draws thousands of visitors; both those who are participating in the Comrades Marathon and those who enjoy outdoor activities,” said James.
He said Comrades 2022 Expo exhibitor applications are now open and anyone who wishes to book their stand space can contact richard@synergybe.co.za or call 011-476-5104.
