Comrades Marathon jitters set in ahead of Sunday
Runners taking part in the 98th edition of the Comrades Marathon say the pre-race jitters are starting to set in.
"I'm very nervous. Not in great shape. So very under-prepared, very undertrained. And people say but you experienced, you can do it in your head. Your head doesn't get there. The legs have to get you there.
“So yeah, nervous, excited, but can't wait for the day,”
said local runner, Craig Denhil, who has already completed 29 marathons.
Excitement is building among the more than 22,677 participants of Sunday's down run from Maritzburg to Durban.
They'll need to complete the race in 12 hours.
READ: Prize Boost for 2025 Comrades Marathon: CMA Raises Stakes by 10% for Iconic Down Run
Yenziwe Oliphant says she's trained hard, and is taking on the gruelling challenge for her mental health.
“I feel like I am ready, I feel like I prepared well. I'm just happy that this year I have no injuries at all but I am a little anxious. But it comes with running the Comrades."
First-timer Pule Sibeko said taking on the ultra marathon is going to be daunting but also a dream come true.
“I'm feeling well but I'm also scared because it's my first time but I think I'm ready, I prepared well. I'm excited to take part in the race. It’s been my dream to take part in the race and it's happening now."
