Comrades innovations draw record spin-offs for KZN

COMRADES Marathon runners and spectators could witness innovations along the route designed to make it a memorable, fun and vibrant event, said KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority yesterday.

- ZAINUL DAWOOD

The economic spin-off from the Comrades Marathon Down Run, from Pietermaritzburg to Durban, tomorrow is expected to reach over R600 million for the host cities of Durban and Pietermaritzburg, said Sibusiso Gumbi, the acting chief executive of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, which has partnered with the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA).

“With all eyes on the race, we are hoping that it will inspire people, whether they watch it on the roadside or on their televisions, to choose KZN for their next holiday or attend one of our many sporting events that are hosted in our province,” he added.

Gumbi said at least 1800 jobs were created because the CMA brings more visitors to the region than any other big international sporting event.