The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) early on Wednesday confirmed that there were no reported fatalities during this year’s ‘down’ run between Pietermaritzburg and Durban on Sunday.
According to a Comrades Marathon social media post, some reports suggested two runners had died.
‘Reputable sources’
However, the organisers were quick to dispel such rumours.
The post read: ‘It has been brought to the attention of the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) that some digital media outlets or accounts are reporting two deaths during the 2025 edition of the race, which took place this past weekend (Sunday, 8 June).
‘The CMA and its medical team can confirm that no deaths have been recorded at the 2025 event.
“As can be expected from an event of this nature and size, there were some cases of runners being transferred to hospital from the route, for various medical reasons.
‘The CMA medical, emergency, safety and health protocols are excellent, and focused on the safety of all runners,’ said CMA General Manager Alain Dalais.
‘The CMA distances itself from any fake news or rumours doing the rounds, and suggests that our community rely on reputable sources for information – starting with our own channels,’ he added.
This year’s men’s race was won by South Africa’s Tete Dijana, with fellow South African Gerda Steyn taking the title in the women’s race.
For Dijana it was a third ‘down’ run victory, while Steyn triumphed for a third consecutive time – and fourth overall.
Meanwhile, as widely reported, Moira Harding, who went missing after crossing the finish line and was found nearly 15 hours later – and 7km away – remains in hospital having suffered severe hypothermia.
This year’s Comrades Marathon was the 98th edition of the famed race.
Have you ever completed the Comrades Marathon?
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