The SAPS officers from Free State who will be running the Comrades Marathon on Sunday.
Image: SAPS / Facebook
More than 500 South African Police Service (SAPS) members are trading their heavy combat boots for running shoes this weekend as they take on the historic 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon. A total of 503 police officers from across the country will stand at the starting line in Durban on Sunday, June 14, 2026, joining a massive global field of over 21,600 runners for the gruelling 85.777km "Up Run" to Pietermaritzburg.
The SAPS contingent is using the iconic ultramarathon not just as a test of extreme physical endurance, but as a platform to champion social change under the official campaign theme: "Running the Extra Mile for Safer Communities."
Among the national contingent, 83 runners represent the host province of KwaZulu-Natal. Beyond the immense physical challenge of the world's oldest ultramarathon, these local officers are running with a specific, urgent mission: raising awareness to combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). Acting KZN Provincial Commissioner, Major General Phumelele Makoba, issued a stirring message of support to her team, emphasising that the race mirrors the resilience required in modern policing.
"Eighty-three police officers from KwaZulu-Natal will run an extra mile for safer communities, they will run against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), and they will endure the distance for the sole purpose of showing the resilience of police in the province," Makoba said.
As an avid runner herself, Makoba acknowledged the rigorous sacrifices required to prepare for an ultramarathon where "every detail matters." She reminded the running officers of the massive support network lifting them up through every grueling kilometre.
"Whenever you feel like giving up, think about the 29,000-strong police army behind you, and find strength from the 12 million KwaZulu-Natal residents who are cheering for you. You will be running wearing the badge of honour, of tenacity," she added.
The mass participation of law enforcement personnel is being highlighted by police top brass as a core pillar of the "SAPS Reset Agenda"—a strategic framework focused on building accountability, personal excellence, and continuous institutional improvement. SAPS management noted that the intense discipline, perseverance, and mental stamina required to cross the Comrades finish line are the exact values underpinning effective community policing.
Furthermore, the initiative shines a spotlight on the critical role that operational health, fitness, and mental wellness play in sustaining a resilient, professional police force capable of serving under deeply challenging conditions.
While dozens of officers tackle the tarmac, a dedicated team of SAPS support staff will man water points and cheering zones along the route to propel their colleagues forward. Major General Makoba and other senior police leadership will be stationed at the POLMED marquee at the Pietermaritzburg finish line to officially welcome the officers home.
"The joy that fills our hearts when we welcome the pride of the province is unexplainable," Makoba said. "I am confident that this year, some of you will grace the podium and be awarded for representing the SAPS well in the world’s toughest marathon."
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