Why Would Anyone Run a Marathon?
Briefly

The Comrades Marathon, a prestigious 55-mile race in South Africa, awards nine different medals based on finishing times, from gold medals for the top 10 finishers to various others that require completing the race within set time limits. A significant tradition involves a countdown by spectators and marshals blocking the finish line, creating a dramatic final push for runners. The atmosphere at the finish line is a mix of intense determination and joyous celebration, blending exhaustion with pride as participants cross the line, including those nearing the last possible moments of completing the race.
The Comrades Marathon offers nine distinct medals including gold for the top 10 finishers, silver for runners under 7.5 hours, and various others for time thresholds like 10 and 12 hours.
Spectators count down the seconds to the finish, creating a tense atmosphere. When the final deadline approaches, race marshals block the finish line, adding to the pressure for weary runners.
Read at The Atlantic
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