Joburg Harriers Athletics Club Gears Up for 2025 Comrades Marathon Ambitions and Insights

Image: Paul Henman

As the countdown to the 2025 Comrades Marathon begins, excitement builds at the Joburg Harriers Athletics Club. Set for the 8th of June 2025, this prestigious marathon is the ultimate test for distance runners. With an enthusiastic team of forty members, including seven women and thirty-three men, the Harriers are not just participating; they are setting their sights on remarkable finish times.

Brian Moyo, the club's road captain, offered key insights into their preparations and the unique challenges posed by the iconic marathon route. His comments underscore a journey marked not only by physical endurance but also by camaraderie and shared ambition.

Training for the Challenge Ahead

Training for the Comrades Marathon is a serious commitment. This grueling race stretches around 89 kilometers and features some of the most challenging hills and climbs in KwaZulu Natal. The terrain is a stark contrast to the flatter landscapes of Gauteng, where many Johannesburg runners train.

To meet these challenges head-on, many athletes at Joburg Harriers follow specific training regimens. Hill training sessions, long-distance runs, and targeted strength conditioning are all vital. For instance, many club members participate in weekly hill repeats, gradually increasing their inclines to build strength. This focused training is essential, as the elevation profile of KwaZulu Natal can fluctuate by more than 1,500 meters during the race.

Additionally, mental preparation is just as crucial as physical training. Athletes are learning to cope with the psychological demands of long-distance running, emphasizing that the Comrades Marathon is not only about speed but also strategy and endurance.

Insights from the Road Captain

Moyo highlighted the key differences between the flat Gauteng terrain and the steep hills of KwaZulu Natal. "The Comrades Marathon tests not just speed but also endurance and strategy," he explained. The club aims for Sub 11 and Sub 10 hour finish times, showing their determination to excel.

During training, members support one another, sharing tips and fostering a spirit of teamwork. This collective approach creates accountability and helps everyone stay motivated.

Importance of Nutrition and Recovery

Nutrition and recovery are as essential as training. Members of the Harriers understand that optimum performance in the days leading up to the marathon hinges on what they eat. Personalised diets emphasizing carbohydrates, proteins, and essential nutrients are tailored to fit the needs of each athlete. For example, many runners increase their carbohydrate intake to about 70% of their diet in the weeks before the event.

Strategy for Race Day

Race day strategies are crucial for success. The Joburg Harriers have begun discussions about pacing, hydration plans, and nutrition during the marathon. Knowing when to refuel and pacing themselves over the long distance is key to both performance and endurance.

Their strategies also include mental preparation. For instance, many runners practice visualization techniques and positive affirmations to calm nerves before the race. This mental readiness is as important as physical training.