There is a unique type of magic that takes over South Africa every winter. It is the spirit of the Comrades Marathon, affectionately known as the Ultimate Human Race. Whether you are stepping onto the start line or cheering from the side of the road with a braai going, this event brings the running community together like nothing else on earth.
This year, the challenge hits a little differently. On Sunday, 14 June 2026, runners will tackle the legendary “Up Run”. Starting from the Durban City Hall and finishing 12 hours later at the Hollywoodbets Scottsville Racecourse in Pietermaritzburg, participants have roughly 87 kilometers of grueling hills standing between them and glory.
At Totalsports, we know that an ultra-marathon is not just won on race day. It is won during the early morning runs, the sacrificed weekends that all begin the day after you cross the finish line.
Respecting the Up Run
Every seasoned Comrades runner will tell you that the Up Run demands ultimate respect. The first half of the course forces you to climb over 500 meters in net elevation within the first 22 kilometers alone.
Tackling giants like Fields Hill, Botha’s Hill, and eventually the infamous Polly Shortts right near the end, requires an intelligent pacing strategy and the right gear. You want a conservative start to protect your legs for the relentless climbing ahead.
Gear to Carry You Through the 12-Hour Day
When you are on your feet for anywhere between 5 and 12 hours, minor discomforts can turn into race-ending issues. Having the correct, battle-tested equipment is non-negotiable.
- The Right Foundation: Cushioning and stability are your best friends when pounding the asphalt for 87km. Explore our curated selection of ultra-distance running shoes to find your perfect match.
- Chafe-Free Miles: Your apparel needs to feel like a second skin. Look for premium technical apparel with flatlock seams and moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry and comfortable.
- Race Day Fuel and Packs: Managing your nutrition and hydration over a 12-hour day is vital. Browse our essential running accessories for ergonomic hydration vests, fuel belts, and anti-blister socks.
Ska Fela Moya: Don’t Give Up
The official campaign slogan for this year is “Ska Fela Moya”, which is Setswana for “Don’t Give Up”. It is a beautifully fitting reminder of what the Comrades Marathon represents. It is about the camaraderie when a stranger pulls you through a tough patch at Drummond, the sheer willpower to beat the final cut-off gun, and the collective heartbeat of thousands of runners sharing the same dream.
Whether you are aiming for a sub-6-hour Wally Hayward medal or simply fighting to cross the line at 17:29:59, the journey is entirely yours.
Count Down with the Home of Running
As the final weeks of tapering wrap up, make sure your race day kit is completely sorted. Visit us online to top up on your sports nutrition, replace worn-out socks, or grab a warm jacket for that freezing Durban start line.
- Everything Running: Totalsports Online Store
- For Him: Men’s Performance Gear
- For Her: Women’s Performance Gear
To everyone lining up on 14 June: remember your training, trust your pace, and Ska Fela Moya. We will see you in Pietermaritzburg!
#Totalsports #ComradesMarathon #SkaFela Moya #TheUltimateHumanRace #UpRun2026 #HomeOfRunning
