By Mbongeni Vilakati
MBABANE – Eswatini ranked 10th out of 84 countries in the list of top ten countries with the most participants in the 97th 2024 Comrades Marathon.
The country had 102 athletes proudly representing the nation. The marathon took place on Sunday (June 9, 2024) in South Africa, spanning from Durban to Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu Natal (KZN) Province.
Among these participants, the Mbabane Golden Foot Club had delegated 35 athletes, Zithande Athletics Club contributed with 15 athletes and the Swaziland National Association Of Teachers (SNAT) fielded 13 members. Additionally, various runners registered as individuals to represent the country.
This year’s 97th iteration of the iconic race, renowned as the world’s largest and oldest, featured a total prize money of R4.09 million, drawing massive participation and international attention.
It saw over 20 000 athletes participating in the ‘up’ run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg covering approximately 85.91km.
In a remarkable feat, Piet Wiersma from the Netherlands emerged victorious in the men’s 2024 Comrades Marathon, crossing the finish line in an impressive 5 hours and 25 minutes. He managed to outpace South Africa’s Dan Moselakwe, securing his win in one of the world’s most prestigious and demanding ultra marathons.
Top 10 Countries
1. South Africa – 20 167
2. Zimbabwe – 330
3. India – 327
4. United Kingdom – 240
5. Botswana – 197
6. Russia – 146
7. Brazil – 140
8. United States of America – 133
9. Zambia – 104
10. Eswatini – 102
