South African runner George Kusche wins the men’s Comrades Marathon on Sunday’s “up run” from Durban to Pietermaritzburg in record time. Multiple outlets report that Kusche crosses the finish line in 5:15:56, which sets a new Comrades Marathon men’s record for the up run. He finishes ahead of Piet Wiersma and Mbuti Mollo, with Wiersma named as the runner-up in published top results. Coverage also emphasizes that Kusche’s victory comes through strong pacing and race strategy, including breaking the long-standing course record for the up run. One report notes a mid-race mishap, but Kusche still maintains a record performance to secure the title. Prize money coverage adds that Kusche earns a total of R2.3 million, including R925,000 for first place, a separate amount for being the first South African, and additional bonuses associated with the new race record and fastest average pace. Separate reporting also credits Gerda Steyn with a fifth Comrades title in the women’s race, breaking her own record again, alongside the men’s record performance.