The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday, 30 November 2024, marking a significant milestone in the history of the world-renowned ultramarathon. The AGM, conducted in a hybrid format for the first time, saw the election of seven new board members, reflecting the CMA's commitment to inclusivity and modern governance.
New Board Members elected:
1. Mark Leathers
2. Willie Mtolo
3. Mqondisi Ngcobo
4. Brenda Marolen
5. Carel Nolte
6. Rory Steyn
7. Alan David Gray
These new members join the existing board members, Isaac Ngwenya and Nontuthuko Mashimane, who continue to serve their terms. The election process was overseen by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to ensure transparency and fairness.
The Presidents of both Athletics South Africa, James Moloi and KwaZulu-Natal Athletics, Steve Mkasi, retain their seats on the Board. In accordance with its Constitution two further Board members may be co-opted at the discretion of the Board.
The new Chairperson and Vice Chairperson will be decided at the first Board meeting.
Outgoing CMA Interim Chairperson, Jeff Minnaar, expressed his gratitude to the outgoing board members for their dedication and contributions. He also highlighted the importance of the new appointments in steering the CMA towards achieving its strategic goals and maintaining the high standards of the Comrades Marathon.
The AGM also celebrated the successful uptake of 23,000 entries for the 2025 Down Run, scheduled to take place from Pietermaritzburg to Durban on Sunday, 8 June 2025. This achievement underscores the enduring popularity and global appeal of the Comrades Marathon which has attracted participants from over 80 countries.