With just days to go before the 98th edition of the Comrades Marathon, runners from across the country are bracing themselves for one of the toughest endurance races in the world — and the nerves are beginning to show.
Local runner Craig Denhil, a seasoned participant with 29 marathons under his belt, admitted that experience doesn't always translate into confidence.
More than 22,677 runners will take on Sunday’s grueling down run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban, with just 12 hours to cross the finish line.
Among them is Yenziwe Oliphant, who says she's not only physically ready but also running for a greater purpose.
For first-time entrant Pule Sibeko, the ultra-marathon represents both a challenge and the fulfilment of a long-held dream.
As anticipation builds ahead of the iconic race, runners are channelling their nerves into determination, ready to face the hills, heat, and heartache that come with chasing glory on the road to Durban.