Grant Barnes, a dedicated athlete from Mid Ennerdale, has secured his spot in the 2025 Comrades Marathon after completing the Johannesburg City Marathon (42.2 km) on 30 March with a time of 4:42:47.
The 37-year-old, who started his running journey in 2008, previously participated in the prestigious Comrades Marathon in 2010 and 2011. A former member of the Daxina Strides Running Club, Barne took a long break from competitive running but made the decision to return to the sport in 2025.
In an interview with Globe Post, Barnes shared his excitement and nerves about the upcoming race, saying, “I chose this race because it was the very first marathon I did when I started running. After such a long break, it felt fitting to return to where my running journey began.”
Barnes also expressed his gratitude towards those who inspired him to return to running, including Komalan Moodley, who will be running his 38th Comrades Marathon this year and Kovalan Moodley, who is set to complete his 41st.
“These people showed me that no one can take your passion away,” Barnes added.
Now, with the 2025 Comrades Marathon just around the corner, Barnes is ready to hit the road once more and take on the iconic race on 8 June.
For more information, contact Barnes on 082 294 1222.
