Comrades champions fly KZN tourism flag high
Their presence also highlights the role the Comrades Marathon plays in promoting KZN as a tourism destination.
As international and local attention turns to KZN this weekend, the Comrades Marathon is once again expected to place the province firmly in the spotlight while celebrating some of South Africa’s finest endurance athletes.
With anticipation building ahead of Sunday’s Comrades Marathon, two of the race’s most accomplished athletes have been highlighted as ambassadors for KwaZulu-Natal tourism, helping showcase the province to thousands of visitors expected for the event.
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Three-time Comrades Marathon champion and 12-time gold medallist Bongmusa Mthembu, together with Joseph Manyedi of the Maxed Elite Running Club in Rustenburg, a five-time Comrades gold medallist who finished fourth in the 2025 race, were among the athletes attending the Elite Runners Comrades Marathon media briefing at the Elangeni Hotel in Durban on Thursday.
KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority said the pair represent the resilience, determination and excellence associated with the world’s oldest and largest ultramarathon as runners prepare for Sunday’s Up Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg.
“Their presence also highlights the role the Comrades Marathon plays in promoting KZN as a tourism destination,” said the entity.
The South African Government acknowledged how the Ultimate Human Race was a testament to human endurance, resilience and solidarity.
“Behind every runner is a story of sacrifice, months of training and discipline,” the Government said.
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The government encouraged the public to rally behind the runners and for residents to “line the route and form the famous ‘human walls’ of support”.
Let us show the world the true meaning of the Ubuntu spirit. Let us rally together, fly our flag high, and carry the runners all the way to the finish line.
The government further emphasised to the runners, the medical teams and security personnel, organisers, volunteers and the support crews to never give up.
KZN Tourism and Film said major sporting events, such as the Comrades Marathon, continue to play an important role in driving visitor numbers, supporting local businesses, and creating broader economic benefits for communities along the route.
“The event provides an opportunity to spotlight the province’s diverse tourism experiences and growing film industry, positioning KZN as a destination where sport, culture, creativity and adventure come together,” it said.
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