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From the gruelling 70km Raptor Rescue turnoff to the legendary Green Number Club, the Comrades Marathon tests resilience at every step – a spirit OMO is proud to stand behind.
As thousands of runners prepare for the 2026 Comrades Marathon, South Africa once again readies itself for one of the country’s most emotional and inspiring sporting spectacles. This year marks a historic milestone – the 50th official “Up Run” from Durban to Pietermaritzburg – a route famous for its relentless climbs, unforgiving gradients, and the extraordinary resilience it demands from every runner.
For OMO, the Comrades Marathon represents far more than a race. It is one of South Africa’s most powerful expressions of perseverance – where ordinary people discover extraordinary strength. From exhausted runners refusing to quit to communities rallying behind complete strangers, the race reflects the same resilient spirit celebrated through OMO’s ‘Stay Unbeatable’ philosophy.
1. The OMO Unbeatable Arch at the Grueling 70km Raptor Rescue Turnoff: For many, that moment arrives at the punishing 70km Raptor Rescue turnoff – one of the route’s most demanding stretches.
2. The ‘Ska Fela Moya’ Spirit: This year’s Comrades theme, “Ska Fela Moya” – a SeTswana phrase meaning “Don’t Give Up” – perfectly captures the emotion of the race, aligning with OMO’s Stay Unbeatable philosophy.
3. Honouring the Green Number Club Legends: Their permanent race numbers represent not just achievement, but years of sacrifice, grit, and determination.
4. The Historic 50th Up Run: The Comrades “Up Run” is regarded by many as the ultimate test in ultra-marathon running.
5. The Drama of the 12-Hour Cut-Off: As the clock approaches 12 hours, exhausted runners sprint, stumble, and fight for every remaining second in pursuit of the finish line.