How the Comrades Marathon Pumps Millions into KZN and South Africa

An epic run that fuels more than finish lines, it fuels entire cities.

As thousands of runners tie their shoelaces for the 98th edition of the Comrades Marathon this Sunday, the buzz in KwaZulu-Natal isn’t just about who will cross the finish line first. From Pietermaritzburg to Durban, the real winners might just be hotels, restaurants, and small businesses whose tills are ringing before the starter pistol even fires.

Running into economic revival

The Comrades Marathon has long been a point of pride for South Africans, but in 2025, it’s also become a symbol of resilience and revival. After sluggish travel numbers earlier this year, the tourism and hospitality sectors in KZN are catching their breath—and the Comrades is giving them a much-needed sprint.

“In Pietermaritzburg, most of the accommodations are fully booked. Durban is buzzing. This isn’t just a local race—it’s a nationwide celebration,” said Brett Tungay, East Coast Chairperson of the Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (Fedhasa).

According to Tungay, events like the Comrades are a shot in the arm for local businesses, with packed restaurants, sold-out lodgings, and even increased foot traffic in retail areas. “Just like the recent Nedbank Cup final, this race is set to turn up the heat for KZN’s hospitality industry,” he added.

Beyond race day: an economic marathon

The impact of the Comrades goes well beyond the race itself. Fedhasa National Chairperson Rosemary Anderson paints a bigger picture. She says the race draws in thousands of runners, their families, their coaches, and a legion of loyal fans, who all need places to stay, food to eat, and transport to get around.

“It’s about more than just Sunday. It’s the week before and the week after travel, sightseeing, celebratory dinners, spa visits, beach walks. All of this injects real money into the local economy,” Anderson explained. “And let’s not forget the jobs created, from hotel staff to tour guides and event coordinators.”

She believes that big-ticket events like the Comrades are key to showcasing South Africa as a vibrant, world-class destination. “When people visit for events, they often return for holidays or business. It’s a long game, but it’s one worth playing,” she added.

The community gears up

In Umhlanga, the local tourism office is just as energised. Chairperson Jeannie Sarno said they’re ready to roll out the red carpet. “It’s not just runners. It’s their supporters, friends, and family and they’re all here to enjoy what Umhlanga has to offer. Many establishments are fully booked. It’s a much-needed boost after a slow March and April.”

Sarno encouraged locals to step up and help make visitors feel welcome. “A restaurant tip, a recommendation for a beach day, or even just a warm smile can go a long way. These moments create memories and repeat tourists.”

Academic stamp of approval

Waldo Krugell, a North-West University economist and a Comrades veteran himself says the race has a unique economic profile. “Unlike many other sports events, Comrades draws participants who stay longer and spend more. Research has shown it delivers a measurable boost to the provincial economy.”

Krugell believes the Comrades stands apart because of its heritage, loyal following, and international appeal. “It’s a niche event, but one with massive draw power,” he said.

The big picture: more than just medals

From street vendors selling boerewors rolls to guesthouses flying ‘no vacancy’ signs, the Comrades Marathon brings life to local economies in ways that can’t be ignored. It’s not just about finishers’ medals—it’s about sustainable tourism, jobs, exposure, and community pride.

With events tourism becoming a cornerstone of South Africa’s growth strategy, the Comrades proves that sport is more than entertainment it’s an engine for economic opportunity.

So whether you’re running, cheering, or just watching with a coffee in hand, remember: this race carries more than runners. It carries hopes, livelihoods, and a celebration of everything that makes South Africa thrive.

{Source: IOL}

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