In the lead-up to the 2024 Comrades Marathon, held on June 9, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) adopted a zero-tolerance stance on cheating. This year, numerous tip-offs from concerned participants and spectators reported several instances of suspected cheating during the race. Additionally, information about fraudulent qualifying submissions from athletes and clubs continues to pour in.
CMA Race & Operations Manager, Ann Ashworth, acknowledged the circulation of social media posts that allegedly expose several athletes for cheating. However, she clarified that the CMA has not yet communicated the final results of its investigations to KwaZulu-Natal Athletics nor publicly identified any suspects.
“We are currently analyzing the complete set of electronic results provided by FinishTime to identify any anomalies or inconsistencies. Our Office is also reviewing data indicating that several athletes missed secret timing points designed to detect course-cutting. These inconsistencies will be cross-referenced with available photographic evidence,” Ashworth explained.
She also addressed an issue at the first timing point, around 5km into the race, reassuring athletes that missing a reading at this point does not necessarily indicate course-cutting.
Ashworth concluded, “The CMA aims to wrap up its investigations in the next few days, after which the names of all confirmed cheats will be submitted to KwaZulu-Natal Athletics for disciplinary action.”