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On Thursday, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) said that an investigation is underway into allegations of cheating during the 2024 event.

Ann Ashworth, Race and Operations Manager at CMA said the CMA was also investigating complaints involving false qualification information submitted by athletes and clubs.

Although the association was aware of several social media posts purporting to show multiple competitors cheating during the event, she stated they have not yet informed KwaZulu-Natal Athletics of the complete and definitive results of their investigations.

Ashworth said the CMA was currently working through the full set of electronic results provided by FinishTime with a view to identifying any anomalies or inconsistencies.

“Our Office is also working through data which suggests that several athletes missed the non-disclosed (or secret) timing points along the route, the purpose of which was to identify runners who engaged in course cutting. All inconsistencies will then be compared to any photographic evidence available.”

The CMA is also looking into a problem which occurred at the first timing point (approximately 5km) and has assured athletes that the absence of a timing reading at this particular point is not necessarily proof of course cutting.

“The CMA hopes to conclude its investigations over the next few days after which the names of all race day cheats will be provided to KwaZulu-Natal Athletics for disciplinary action.”

 

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[source:algoafm]