Picture: The 2023 Comrades Marathon down run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. Shelley Kjonstad/African News Agency (ANA)
As thousands prepare to lace up for the Comrades Marathon, a remarkable group of runners are stepping up — not just for the challenge, but for change.
Every stride on race day will cover more than distance. It will raise awareness. It will honour lives. And in many cases, it will fund vital work led by some of South Africa’s most impactful nonprofits.
At BackaBuddy, we’re proud to be the platform of choice for individuals and charities running with purpose — transforming this iconic race into a celebration of generosity, resilience, and collective action.
Running for Children, Education, and Hope
Rainbows and Smiles
Rainbows and Smiles offers emotional, social, and financial support to families facing the unimaginable: childhood cancer. Their Comrades runners race in memory of brave little warriors and in honour of those still fighting — ensuring no child faces cancer alone.
Every year, they are joined by a powerful group of supporters who turn their sweat into support. Together, they run with heart, and for hope.
Support their champions here: Rainbows and Smiles Foundation | BackaBuddy
CHOC Cows
With their unmistakable horns, high energy, and unmatched spirit, the CHOC Cows are a beloved feature of the Comrades route. But beyond the fun is a serious mission — to “keep more than hope alive” for children affected by cancer.
By fundraising through BackaBuddy, CHOC Cows and their many champions help provide accommodation, counselling, awareness, and comfort to families across South Africa.
Support the herd here: The CHOC Cows | BackaBuddy
University of Pretoria
The University of Pretoria’s Comrades runners take each step in support of access to education, groundbreaking research, and impactful community upliftment. Their fundraising contributes to student bursaries, academic development, and outreach programmes that transform lives.
This year, they’re joined by individuals such as:
- Prof Andries de Lange – A UP staff member whose campaign, From the Academic Field to the Finish Line, channels his Comrades run into fundraising for educational equity and empowerment.
- Dr Bianca Frost– A dedicated educator whose campaign, From the Classroom to the Comrades, supports young learners by showing them that discipline, dreams, and determination can cross any finish line.
Support The University of Pretoria Team here: University of Pretoria | BackaBuddy
Why Run for a Cause?
Whether you’re passionate about healthcare, the environment, mental health, education, or emergency relief — there’s a cause on BackaBuddy that speaks to every heart.
Running for a cause is an incredible achievement on its own. But using it as a platform to uplift others? That’s legacy.
And the good news? It’s simple to get started. We’re here to help you launch, share, and grow your campaign — from start to finish line.