The 99th edition of the historic Comrades Marathon is officially under way in South Africa (SA), with a massive field of 2 633 registered runners tackling the grueling 85.77-kilometre “Up-Run”.
The world-famous ultramarathon commenced at 05:00 CAT outside the Durban City Hall. Athletes now face a punishing route through the KwaZulu-Natal hills, racing against a strict 12-hour cut-off to reach the finish line at the Hollywoodbets Scottsville Racecourse in Pietermaritzburg.
To facilitate the safe passage of the runners, Durban Metro Police have implemented extensive road closures along the entire thoroughfare connecting the two cities. Motorists have been urged to avoid the race routes entirely to prevent severe traffic gridlock.
Durban Metro Police Spokesperson Boyzie Zungu confirmed that critical arterials have been closed to normal traffic. Drivers must avoid Pixley kaSeme Street, Russell Street, the N3 Westbound, and the King Cetshwayo Highway. Heavy closures are also in effect along the M13 in Westville, Josiah Gumede Road in Pinetown, the M13 in Kloof, and Old Main Road in Hillcrest.
–ChannelAfrica–
