Former Comrades winner Ann Ashworth leaves role as race director - after just 7 months in the job

Ann Ashworth, a former Comrades winner, has been relieved of her duties as race and operations Manager just seven months into the job. 

Asworth, who won the women's Comrades race in 2018, was appointed by the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) in November 2023. She replaced former race director Rowyn James.

Asworth confirmed her departure in a social media post late on Wednesday.

"My time at the CMA has come to an end. The Board feels that I lack the necessary leadership and race management abilities to continue to serve as the race and operations manager," she wrote on Facebook.

It appears as though Asworth did not have the board's backing.

"Given recent events this decision has not come as a surprise. For weeks there have been rumblings amongst the naysayers that 'the Board would be dealing with me'.

"The Board will tell you that I did not accept their offer to extend my contract before their subsequent decision to revoke the offer. They will also say that I have previously indicated that I did not wish to remain in my position beyond 30 June.

"What is true is that: I had offered to resign on at least three occasions but this offer was never accepted; I was hesitant to stay on at the CMA given what was happening in the office and behind closed doors; and I was convinced to sign my offer of extension after discussing matters with my staff and Tier 1 sponsors who wished me to remain in my position.

"Regardless, and in spite of all my sacrifices and the dedication I have shown to the race for yet another year; I have once again been humbled. I have taken myself to the brink, worked myself to the bone; and I have no medal to show for it. That's life. Thankfully, no experience is ever wasted and I look forward to what life has to