Abstract

MARALACK, D. Enabling disabled participation in sport: Roadrunning. SA J. Sports Med. [online]. 2016, vol.28, n.2, pp.59-60. ISSN 2078-516X.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2078-516x/2016/v28i2a1429.

The Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon (OMTOM) and Comrades Marathon were challenged by wheelchair participants to enter their ultramarathon races in 2016, despite the ultramarathon being physically challenging over 56 km and 90 km respectively. The terrain for both is mountainous, exacerbating the physical challenge of the distance. Initially both events declined entry to two wheelchair participants, based on procedural, logistical and safety grounds, prompting social media protests and debate. This commentary focuses in brief on the two sides of the same coin: the rights of disabled and specifically wheelchair athletes to be included in ultramarathons in South Africa; and the management and regulatory responsibilities of event organisers in these complex events.

Keywords : running events; mass participation; inclusion; wheelchair; Two Oceans Marathon.

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