×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Comrades for youth launched

The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) and the Kwazulu-Natal department of sport and recreation launched the first National Youth Run on Thursday.

The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) and the Kwazulu-Natal department of sport and recreation launched the first National Youth Run on Thursday.

The event will be held on the eve of Comrades Marathon in a joint venture bid to improve the health and fitness of the youth and to reduce the average age of future Comrades runners.

The run targets nine to 19 year olds to compete in either the 5km or 10km distances.

"The Comrades Marathon is not suitable for young runners, but that does not mean we should not offer them something within the context of the whole Comrades experience," said vice-chairman Mac Chitja.

Chitja paid tribute to the department of sport and recreation for initiating the event and the impact it could have in promoting health, fitness and in particular the participation of the youth and women.

Over the last decade the average age of Comrades runners has gradually crept up into the mid 40s. Only runners aged 20 and older are allowed to enter races longer than 32km. - Sapa

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.