A total of 21,633 runners are expected to take part in this year’s Up Run on Sunday, 14 June, covering 85.777km from Durban to Pietermaritzburg
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As thousands of athletes prepare for the 2026 Comrades Marathon, organisers and medical teams have issued important health and safety advice for runners and spectators ahead of the iconic ultra-marathon.
A total of 21,633 runners are expected to take part in this year’s Up Run on Sunday, 14 June, covering 85.777km from Durban to Pietermaritzburg. Participants will face an elevation gain of approximately 1.8km and must complete the race within the 12-hour cut-off time.
Comrades Marathon Association race doctor Dr Jeremy Boulter, who has coordinated medical services for the event for the past 48 years, said this year’s race is expected to place similar physical demands on runners as previous Up Runs.
He noted that the current weather forecast suggests dry, cool to mild conditions, but warned that temperatures could drop significantly later in the day. Boulter encouraged runners to maintain their fluid intake throughout the race regardless of weather conditions.
Netcare and Netcare 911, which have provided emergency medical support to the Comrades Marathon for 25 years, will deploy extensive resources along the route and at the finish medical tent.
The medical contingent includes 90 paramedics, 73 nurses, 10 doctors, 16 advanced life support ambulances, 10 rapid response vehicles, motorbike and quadbike medics, a helicopter equipped for intensive care transfers, and support staff.
Digital technology will also assist runners and their families. When a runner receives medical care, designated contacts will automatically receive updates on the participant’s location and treatment facility.
Boulter advised runners to only participate if they have trained adequately, avoid racing while ill or taking medication, replace fluids and electrolytes regularly, eat light meals throughout the event and avoid using painkillers or anti-inflammatory medication during the race.
Medical officials urged runners to stop immediately and seek assistance from race marshals or Netcare 911 personnel if they experience dizziness, confusion, nausea, muscle cramps, disorientation, chest pain or sudden chills.
Supporters have also been encouraged to stay hydrated, avoid obstructing runners, protect themselves from the sun, keep emergency lanes clear and seek medical assistance if they feel unwell.
Netcare 911 operations director Shalen Ramduth said runners and spectators should remain alert to warning signs and seek medical help without delay if needed.
IOL