Legends and Landmarks of the Comrades Marathon Route

The Comrades Marathon route is far more than a road between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. It is lined with famous hills, historic landmarks and traditions that have become part of Comrades folklore. Here are some of the most iconic:

1. Polly Shortts – The Heartbreak Hill

               Perhaps the most feared section of the route, Polly Shortts is the last of the “Big Five” hills on the up run and comes when runners are already exhausted. Many dreams have been made or broken on its steep slopes. It is named after farmer Polly Bentinick Shortts, whose property was nearby.

2. Arthur’s Seat

               Located just beyond Drummond near the halfway mark, this small niche in a roadside bank is one of the race’s most cherished traditions. It is associated with five-time Comrades winner Arthur Newton. Legend says runners should greet him with “Good morning, Sir” or place a flower in the niche to ensure a strong second half of the race.

3. The Comrades Wall of Honour

               Overlooking the Valley of a Thousand Hills near Drummond, this landmark features plaques commemorating thousands of Comrades finishers. For many runners, seeing their name on the wall is as meaningful as earning a medal.

4. Drummond – The halfway mark

               No point on the route generates more excitement than Drummond. Whether running up or down, reaching the halfway mark provides a huge psychological boost.

               The village becomes a carnival of spectators on race day.

5. Inchanga

               The long climb through Inchanga tests both body and mind. Its twisting roads and relentless gradient have humbled many runners. The hill’s name comes from a Zulu word meaning a long-bladed knife.

6. Botha’s Hill

               One of the most scenic sections of the route, Botha’s Hill offers spectacular views over the Valley of a Thousand Hills. It is also home to some of the loudest and most enthusiastic supporters.

7. Fields Hill

               A legendary descent on the down run and a gruelling climb on the up run. Its sweeping bends through Kloof and Pinetown are famous among runners and spectators alike.

8. Cowies Hill

               The first of the Big Five for down run runners and the final major hill before Durban on the up run. Crowds here often create a tunnel of noise and encouragement.

10. Kearsney College

               The route passes this famous KwaZulu-Natal school on Botha’s Hill. Its pupils and supporters traditionally create one of the most vibrant spectator zones on race day.

11. The Valley of a Thousand Hills

               The dramatic landscape between Durban and Pietermaritzburg provides one of the race’s most memorable backdrops. For many runners, the views here are a reminder of why Comrades is called “The Ultimate Human Race”.

12. The highest point at Umlaas Road

     At approximately 870 metres above sea level, this is the highest point on the course. Many runners pass it without realising they have reached the roof of Comrades.

13. The finish-line cut-off

               Not a physical landmark, but certainly a legendary one. The final minutes before cut-off are among the most emotional scenes in world sport. As the clock counts down, thousands of spectators roar runners home in a race against time.

Comrades marathon spectator guide

For many people, the Comrades Marathon is about running 89 kilometres between Pietermaritzburg and Durban. But for spectators, it is a day-long festival of courage, camaraderie and unforgettable moments.

Here are 20 things every Comrades spectator should experience at least once:

1. Hear the cock crow at the start

               The iconic rooster crow signals the moments before the race begins and sends shivers down the spine.

2. Watch the singing of Shosholoza and hear Chariots of Fire

               There is nothing quite like hearing thousands of runners unite in song before dawn.

3. Feel the excitement of the starting gun

               Months of preparation culminate in one electrifying moment when that starting gun goes off signalling the journey ahead.

4. Watch runners tackle Polly Shortts

               The famous hill has humbled many runners and inspired countless spectators.

5. Join a roadside support station

               Hand out water, sweets or words of encouragement and become part of the race.

6. Ring a cowbell

               It may seem simple, but runners love hearing the noise and support.

7. Spot runners in creative costumes

               From superheroes to rhinos and everything in between, Comrades always delivers colourful characters.

8. Cheer for a novice runner

               For many participants, simply finishing is a life-changing achievement.

9. Experience the gees in a route-side village

               Communities along the route transform into festive support zones.

10. Read the messages on runners’ backs

               Many runners carry tributes, fundraising causes or personal motivations.

11. Watch elite athletes fly past

               Their speed and effortless stride are something to behold.

12. Witness the camaraderie between runners

               From sharing drinks to helping struggling athletes, the spirit of Ubuntu is everywhere.

13. Stand at a major landmark along the route

               Each section has its own atmosphere and stories.

14. Enjoy the music and entertainment

               Local bands, DJs and community groups keep the energy high.

15. Follow a friend or family member’s journey

               Tracking their progress adds extra excitement to the day.

16. Visit the Comrades Expo

               Soak up the build-up and meet runners from around the world.

17. Take a photo at the Comrades Wall of Honour

               Celebrate the history and legends of the Ultimate Human Race.

18. Cheer a runner across the finish line

               The emotion on a finisher’s face is unforgettable.

19. Witness the dramatic final minutes before cut-off

               Few sporting moments match the tension and emotion of the closing countdown.

20. Stay until the very end

The final finishers often receive the loudest applause. Whether you spend the day at the start, along the route or at the finish, the Comrades Marathon offers memories that last a lifetime. The runners may earn the medals, but the spectators are the heartbeat that help carry them to the finish.