The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) is proud to announce iTOO Special Risks as the Official Specialty Insurance Partner for the 2026 Comrades Marathon.
This strategic partnership, built on the mantra Think Expert. Think iTOO, brings unparalleled expertise in risk management and specialty protection for both athletes and organisers to The Ultimate Human Race.
As part of this partnership, iTOO is providing comprehensive Event Cancellation, Contingency Insurance and Cyber Insurance for the 99th edition of the race.
This critical cover ensures that all race entries are protected, should the event be cancelled or postponed due to unforeseen circumstances – including extreme weather – in which case, participants will be eligible for refunds on their entry fees.
Through iTOO’s Run99 Initiative, Comrades Marathon runners can donate pre-loved running shoes to underprivileged athletes. Image courtesy iTOO.
iTOO is providing Event Liability Insurance to safeguard the organisers and the integrity of the race. Additionally, iTOO is also providing cyber cover, an essential layer of protection in an increasingly digital environment.
“At iTOO, we believe that the loss of a race entry should never be a dream denied. By providing specialist insurance solutions, we allow athletes to focus entirely on their training and the race itself, with peace of mind,” says Mamoeti Nosi, Product Head: Events, iTOO Special Risks.
“Furthermore, our Run99 initiative and coaching seminars further reflect our commitment to the heart of the running community.”
Going the Extra Mile
Beyond insurance, iTOO is committed to creating positive social impact. Therefore, in celebration of the 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon in 2026, iTOO is spearheading the Run99 Initiative.
This shoe collection project encourages all runners as well as the broader community to donate their pre-loved running shoes, which will be collected and then distributed to underprivileged athletes, fostering the next generation of runners and ensuring that the spirit of camaraderie extends far beyond the race route.
Also, iTOO will host two specialist webinars in May 2026, aimed at the coaches who train Comrades athletes. These sessions will provide expert advice on advanced training techniques and risk mitigation for long-distance running, ensuring coaches have the expert tools needed to guide their athletes to the finish line.
“We are delighted to welcome iTOO as our Specialty Insurance Partner,” says CMA General Manager Alain Dalais.
“Their proactive stance on securing event cancellation cover sets a new standard for accountability in South African sporting events. This partnership not only protects our runners financially, but also enriches the race experience through the Run99 project and expert coaching insights.”
For more information on the iTOO Run99 shoe drive or to register for the May Coaching Seminars, please visit https://itoo.co.za or iTOO’s social pages.
About iTOO Special Risks
iTOO is a leading African specialty insurer, offering expert solutions for complex risks across industries including entertainment, sport and corporate business. Operating as Hollard’s preferred underwriter of specialty products, iTOO is a home for UMAs, niche start-ups and innovative thinkers who challenge convention and bring new ideas to insurance.
About the Comrades Marathon
First run in 1921, the Comrades Marathon is the world’s largest and oldest ultramarathon, run annually between the cities of Durban and Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, alternating Up and Down directions.
The 2026 race takes place on Sunday 14 June and will be the 99th edition of the race, as well as the 50th Up Run, starting in Durban and finishing in Pietermaritzburg. The 2026 race campaign is titled Ska Fela Moya, which is Setswana for Don’t Give Up.
