The History of Comrades Marathon with Carla Molinaro

In 1921, in remembrance of the many South African soldiers who had fallen in the First World War, Vic Clapham had the idea to create the now-famous Comrades Marathon. Vic was born initially in London but moved to South Africa at 13 years old in 1899, while the Anglo-Boer War occurred between the British Empire and two Boer states. 

Returning British soldiers who lived in South Africa formed the “League of Comrades of the Great War” to represent the rights of war veterans. However, Vic wanted a living memorial to those who had fallen and would embody the spirit of fortitude, endurance and bravery.

On May 24th 1921, known as ‘Empire Day’ at that time, 34 scantily clad men, mostly infantrymen, stood side by side, anxiously waiting for the pistol firing to announce the beginning of their 54-mile race. Back then, it wasn’t the spectacle it is today. 

Covered in fine dust, in 8hrs and 59mins, Bill Rowan crossed the finish line in Durban, making him the first winner of the Comrades Marathon. His race remains the slowest winning time to this very day. Only 16 men finished the race.

Cut to 2023, 16,072 crossed the start line in Pietermaritzburg, with 14,896 finishing the race. The Comrades Marathon has grown into a national extravaganza, with thousands of people lining the streets to support, sing and dance while brave athletes pass by. 

Apart from a small break for the Second World War and the Covid-19 pandemic, athletes worldwide have taken part in this incredible commemorative race every year. 

The Route

The 89km route takes place on the roads of KwaZulu-Natal province, taking in ‘The Big Five’ hills en route: Cowies Hill, Fields Hill, Botha’s Hill, Inchanga and Polly Shortts. The route runs between Pietermaritzburg and Durban, alternating the two as the start and finish line.