1. Fancy A Durban Curry? Stop!

Hold off on any food that might give you a dodgy gut until after the race. I ate a bunny chow two nights before my first Comrades, thinking that by the time I reached the starting line, I’d be fine. The result: multiple pit-stops at the porta-loos on race day.

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2. It’s Okay To Cry…

…Even if it’s before you’ve started racing. You’ve put a considerable amount of time and effort into preparing for this moment, both physically and mentally. Plus, it’s hard not to shed a tear when you’re standing shoulder-to-shoulder with 20 000 runners, engaged in a passionate rendition of Shosholoza.

3. Wear Extra Layers

It’s often cold at the start. You can always shed them later on in the race, and your cast-offs will go to a good home; local children really appreciate them.

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4. Stick To Your Own Pace

Don’t be tempted to run faster than feels comfortable… even if it means saying goodbye to a pacing bus.

5. Conserve Your Energy

Run at a moderate pace from early on in the race. Take regular walk breaks, particularly on the uphill sections.

6. Experience Counts

There should only be one mantra you carry with you to the finish line: “I’ve done the training, and my body is capable of running 90 kilometres.”

7. Set Shorter Goals

Break the race into sections, and reward yourself as you meet each goal. I ‘gave’ myself an energy gel after each section I finished.

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8. Salt Is Your Friend

Chewing handfuls of sticky, salty potatoes in the latter stages of the race will save your legs from heat fatigue and painful cramps.

9. Don’t Drink Too Much Water

This could cause the level of salt (i.e. sodium) in your blood to drop too low, which can be fatal. Feeling hot? Regularly dousing your head, neck and legs with cold water will do the trick.

10. Don’t Skip The Post-Comrades Full English

I promise you, it’ll be the best breakfast you’ve ever chowed down on!

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