Participants must provide their own seconds. At least two are recommended. Failure to comply with this rule may lead to disqualification. Appropriate training for Comrades is recommended for this race - with the Comrades taken as a training run. The Washie is like any of life’s great challenges; if the preparation has been careful and meticulous there is no need to fear the ‘Double Comrades'. The organisers recommend reflective and protective equipment such as weatherproofs, goggles, gloves, a balaclava and lip-balm.

Bring several towels and fresh T-shirts to change into. A supply of warm drinks is also advisable. The organisers provide an overview of the route, including a profile and for the last 20 kilometres every kilometre is marked. To qualify for the Washie you must complete at least one marathon in five hours in the 12 months before the race. To cope with the difficulties of covering the distance during the night the race is run on the Friday closest to the full moon in July. This moon has become known as the ‘Washie Moon’ among the runners in the area. This event was started by Buffalo club member Lionel Whitfield in honour of his father, Washington.