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Potatoes SA took to the streets of KwaZulu-Natal on 14 June this year, to manage a refreshment station at the 99th Comrades Marathon. The event was an ‘up run’ from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, giving participants a 12-hour limit to reach the finish line from the starting time.
This year’s Comrades Marathon covered 85.7 km (shorter than usual due to a closed road section) of pure dedication, with 20 349 runners who had spent months preparing for the ultimate human race crossing the starting line. Of those, 18 276 successfully completed the course.
Fuel on the route
Potatoes SA managed refreshment station number 16 out of 49, located on Old Main Road in Hillcrest just before Botha’s Hill at the 33.3 km mark.
All 49 stations were equipped with potatoes, water sachets, Coca-Cola, energy drinks, fruit, biscuits, amahewu, and first aid.
The day started early for the Potatoes SA team, who arrived at 04:00, an hour before the runners set off from Durban. With over 50 volunteers to run the station, Potatoes SA successfully managed the operation with support from the MSJ Marketing and AmaKonekXin teams, even providing first-aid support to runners suffering from cramps. Throughout the day, the team worked alongside volunteers to ensure runners received plenty of cheers and words of encouragement to help push them to the finish line.
slow release of energy to keep the runners
fuelled throughout the race.
Across the route, a total of two tonnes of baby potatoes were supplied by the RSA Group Market Agency at the Durban Market. The potatoes provided a slow release of energy to fuel the runners, especially for the uphill run.
Powering performance
Managing a refreshment station formed part of Potatoes SA’s ongoing Active Living campaign, which promotes potatoes as a nutritious energy source for active lifestyles. Rich in complex carbohydrates, vitamin C, and potassium, potatoes supply sustained energy while supporting normal muscle function, making them an ideal food for endurance events.
The positive response from participants highlighted the importance of potatoes in sports nutrition.
The Comrades Marathon provides an ideal platform for Potatoes SA to engage directly with consumers and demonstrate the versatility and nutritional benefits of potatoes beyond the dinner table. By participating in one of South Africa’s most celebrated sporting events, Potatoes SA continues to connect with diverse audiences while reinforcing the message that potatoes are a wholesome and naturally energising food.
Potatoes SA was proud to support the runners and stand alongside volunteers and supporters who made the event possible. From the starting to the finish line, potatoes helped power performances, proving that great achievements begin with great nutrition. – Sheila Makgato, Potatoes SA