​The SAJBD condemns the scenes of anti-Israel protestors tracking and harassing Israeli runners during the Comrades

The South African Jewish Board of Deputies condemns the scenes of anti-Israel protestors tracking and harassing Israeli runners during the Comrades Marathon. We are equally dismayed by the ANCYL in KwaZulu-Natal’s statement calling for the exclusion of Israeli athletes, identified by name and race number to facilitate targeted harassment. This is a form of doxing which is reprehensible.

The Comrades Marathon, named to honour the camaraderie and unity among diverse participants, embodies an ethos of perseverance, community, ubuntu, and collective spirit. It has always been a beacon of inclusivity and was a multi racial event even during the darkest days of Apartheid, having opened to all participants in 1975. With this in mind, it becomes clear that the deliberate tracking, harassment and intimidation of Israeli athletes is the antithesis to the very spirit of the Comrades.

The 2025 Comrades Marathon attracted runners from over 80 countries, reflecting the global reach of the world’s oldest ultra-marathon. It is disturbing that only Israeli athletes were singled out for harassment, despite the presence of participants from nations with ongoing conflicts and serious human rights concerns, such as Russia.

The harassment of these athletes exemplifies the anti-Israeli movement’s unwanted and unconstitutional exploitation of public spaces to antagonize and intimidate those who challenge its narrow political bent. These theatrical displays make no contribution toward improving or saving a single life in Gaza.

Let us rather adhere to the Comrade Marathon’s spirit of inclusive participation and respect for diversity.