Comrades Marathon 2025: New Cut-Off Times, Pacing Strategies & How to Finish Strong
Date: Sunday, 8 June 2025 | Distance: 89.98 km | Type: Down Run
New Cut-Off Times: Designed to Help You Finish
After a detailed consultation process, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has revealed a completely new approach to route cut-offs for the 98th edition of the race. The 2025 cut-offs have been carefully designed to support runners who are capable of finishing within 12 hours, without applying unnecessary pressure early in the race.
Key Changes for 2025
- Single set of cut-offs applied from the 6:00 AM start.
- More generous time allowances at early stages to encourage smarter pacing.
- Focus on road reopening, safety, and support rather than strict pace enforcement.
Cut-Off Times and Distances
| Point on Route |
Distance Covered |
Race Time |
Time of Day |
Pace Required |
Distance Remaining |
Time Remaining |
| Cato Ridge underpass |
30.5 km |
5:10:00 |
11:10 |
10:12/km |
60 km |
6:50:00 |
| Halfway @ Drummond |
45 km |
6:40:00 |
12:40 |
8:55/km |
45 km |
5:20:00 |
| Winston Park |
58.3 km |
8:30:00 |
14:30 |
8:42/km |
32 km |
3:30:00 |
| Pinetown underpass |
69.1 km |
10:05:00 |
16:05 |
8:48/km |
21 km |
1:55:00 |
| 45th Cutting crest |
81.5 km |
11:30:00 |
17:30 |
8:30/km |
9 km |
0:30:00 |
| Final Cut-off (Finish) |
90 km |
12:00:00 |
18:00 |
8:00/km |
0 km |
N/A |
Note: Cut-offs come into effect after the 6:00 AM second group start. Add 15 minutes for Group 1.
Pacing Strategy: Negative Splits for Positive Results
With the 2025 cut-offs allowing for slower early stages, runners are encouraged to employ a negative splits strategy. Start easy, conserve energy, and finish strong.
- Run slower than 10:00/km until Cato Ridge.
- Maintain around 9:00/km pace to reach Drummond with reserves left.
- Push stronger in the second half where required.
The goal is not just to beat cut-offs, but to finish within 12 hours. That means keeping your overall pace at or below 8:00/km.
Qualifying Criteria for Comrades 2025
To enter the race, runners must qualify based on recent marathon or ultra-distance performances. Below are the accepted race distances and times:
| Distance |
Max Qualifying Time |
| 42.2 km | 5:00:00 |
| 48 km | 5:59:59 |
| 50 km | 6:09:59 |
| 56 km | 6:59:59 |
| 60 km | 7:29:59 |
| 80 km | 10:34:59 |
| 90 km | 11:59:59 |
| 100 km | 13:34:59 |
FAQs on the Comrades Cut-Offs
What’s the history of cut-offs in the Comrades Marathon?
Early races allowed flexible pacing. In 1968, the first intermediate cut-off was introduced at halfway (Drummond) to help manage traffic and support services.
Why are intermediate cut-offs needed?
They ensure roads can reopen in a timely fashion, while also keeping runners safe and the race logistically manageable.
Why have they changed for 2025?
The CMA wants to give runners more flexibility and reduce early pressure, allowing for more even effort and better chances of finishing.
Will runners be forced to withdraw?
Only if they miss a cut-off or are deemed medically unfit. If you’re on pace to finish and meet the cut-offs, you’ll be allowed to continue.
Final Thoughts: The Spirit of Comrades Lives On
The Comrades Marathon isn’t just about finishing; it’s about courage, strategy, and endurance. With the more runner-friendly cut-offs for 2025, the CMA is giving participants every chance to succeed. Run smart, stay safe, and enjoy the most iconic ultra-marathon on the planet.