COMRADES RUNNERS RELIEF FUND
Over R50-thousand has been donated to the Comrades Marathon Runners Relief Fund in the first four hours of the #Comrades2024 entry process.
The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) initiated the fund as a means to assist disadvantaged athletes to be part of the world’s biggest, oldest and most famous ultramarathon. Through this fund, R1-million has been allocated to reduce the entry fee by up to 50% for 1500 South African entrants.
CMA Chairperson, Mqondisi Ngcobo has urged runners, supporters and the public at large to contribute to the Runners Relief Fund, saying, “In line with our Runners First initiative, the CMA has looked at ways of improving the runner experience and also assisting those disadvantaged athletes in making their Comrades Marathon entry affordable and within reach if they are unemployed or have a total annual income of less than R30-thousand. It is heartening to see how well this initiative has been received on the opening day of entries.”
Any person or business can make a donation to the Comrades Runners Relief Fund. Click here to donate: https://comrades.com/race-info/comrades-relief-fund
379 athletes have applied for relief from the fund so far. Runners wishing to apply need to note the process:
Entry Screening:
1. On entry a runner who would like to apply for relief will select the option at the bottom of the screening page.
2. They will then be informed of the T&Cs around the relief and will select a box stating they understand the rules around it.
o Rules include paying 50% of entrance fee upon entering and if unsuccessful they will be required to pay the entry fee difference by 29 February 2024 (partial payment date cut off) or have the option to apply for a refund (less entry service fees).
o Should an unsuccessful entrant fail to apply for a refund or make the entry balance payment by 29 February 2024, they will forfeit the initial 50% payment.
o Current requirements as outlined:
o Entrant to be unemployed and/or earn less than R30 000 per year.
o If employed an entrant to provide employer/s name and contact information
o Preference will be given to an entrant who can provide proof of their income.
o Must be South African citizen.
o An application form to be completed and signed by a Commissioner of Oaths
o A letter from the entrant’s club must accompany the application. The letter must confirm that the entrant is a member of good standing and that the club supports the application.
o Applications will open on 21 November 2023 and the applicant must pay the initial 50% entry fee.
o Applications will close on 11 December 2023
o The CMA reserves the right to verify the information submitted to support the application. Any applications which contain false information will not be considered.
