09/06/2026
Nelspruit Marathon Club Annual Comrades Breakfast Send off
On Saturday, 6 June 2026, over 200 runners from clubs across the Lowveld gathered at Mbombela Stadium for the Nelspruit Marathon Club Comrades Breakfast Run. The annual event served as a final opportunity for athletes, supporters and running enthusiasts to come together ahead of the Comrades Marathon.
Runners were welcomed by a beautiful, crisp winter morning and a spectacular Mbombela sunrise, creating the perfect atmosphere for the occasion. before lining up to the start we all come together in unity, taking pictures of our amazing athletes and you could sense, there was a genuine sense of excitement, friendship and anticipation in the air. Laughter and conversation filled the gathering as runners shared stories, memories and encouragement with one another.
The event brought together athletes from various clubs and backgrounds, from first-time Comrades runners to seasoned veterans with many medals to their names. Despite representing different clubs, everyone stood together as one running family, united by a shared passion for the sport and the journey that lies ahead.
Among those preparing to take on The Ultimate Human Race are runners with very different stories, each carrying their own motivation to the start line in Pietermaritzburg. One athlete, a member of the Green Number Club with 10 Comrades finishes to her name, will be taking on her 11th consecutive Comrades Marathon this year. For her, Comrades is about far more than the distance.
"You run with strangers until they become family."
Another runner carries a deeply personal reason for taking on the race, running in memory of her first Comrades partner who tragically lost her life in a hit-and-run incident. Her journey serves as a reminder that some finish lines are crossed not only for ourselves, but also for those whose memories continue to inspire us.
For one novice runner, simply reaching the start line is already a significant achievement. After two unsuccessful attempts to qualify, he secured his Comrades entry with his final qualifying marathon. His journey is a testament to perseverance and determination, proving that giving up is never the answer when pursuing a dream.
Another first-time Comrades runner will be sharing the experience alongside her two brothers, who are also novices. As she prepares for her first journey between Pietermaritzburg and Durban, she knows that waiting at the finish will be her husband and 18-month-old daughter. Their support provides all the motivation she needs for the long road ahead.
These stories, and many others like them, highlight what makes Comrades so special. Behind every race number is a personal journey filled with sacrifice, determination, family support and a reason to keep moving forward when the road becomes difficult.
Participants enjoyed the NMC Fast Race route, taking in the cool morning conditions while enjoying the company of fellow runners. Throughout the run, the spirit of camaraderie was evident as athletes encouraged one another and celebrated the friendships that make the running community so special.
Following the run, participants gathered for breakfast and socialising, providing an opportunity to reflect on past Comrades experiences, share advice and build excitement for race day. Stories were exchanged, friendships strengthened and excitement continued to build as race day draws closer.
The morning was a reminder that running is about more than distances and finish times. It is about community, support, friendship and bringing people together.
The Nelspruit Marathon Club extends its sincere thanks to every runner, volunteer, supporter and club that contributed to the success of the event. With over 200 runners in attendance and an atmosphere filled with positivity and unity, the 2026 Comrades Breakfast Run was a fitting send-off for the Lowveld athletes preparing to take on The Ultimate Human Race.
