Nominations open for Spirit of Comrades Awards

The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has opened nominations for the GEMS Spirit of Comrades Awards.

The awards are a celebration of the extraordinary achievements of Comrades Champions alongside athletes from 76 nations worldwide.

The CMA invites runners, supporters, and the public to participate in recognising outstanding individuals who embody the true spirit of this iconic event.

For nearly three decades, the Spirit of Comrades Awards Gala has honoured exceptional individuals who exemplify ubuntu, selflessness, sacrifice, courage, and perseverance. These remarkable recipients have left an indelible mark on the Comrades Marathon’s history.

Sponsored by the Government Employees Medical Scheme, the glamorous awards gala dinner is set to take place in Durban this October.

The criteria for nomination are broad and include: The candidate will likely have run the Comrades Marathon, possibly on numerous occasions; the candidate may be an integral player in the history of the Comrades Marathon; most importantly, the candidate may have exhibited a particular act of selflessness, sacrifice, courage, or perseverance in a specific race or over many years.

To nominate an individual for the GEMS Spirit of Comrades Award, download and submit the 2024 GEMS Spirit of Comrades Awards Nomination Form by Monday August 19. The CMA’s Heritage and Traditions Committee will review nominations and select deserving recipients.

CMA chairperson Mqondisi Ngcobo urged people to, “come together to celebrate the true essence of the Comrades Marathon and honour those who inspire us all”.