Gerda Steyn Aiming for Historic Third Consecutive Victory at the 2025 Comrades Marathon

Image: Felix Dlanga

Gerda Steyn, known for her smile and fierce competitive spirit from the Hollywood Athletics Club, has established herself as a leading figure in ultra-distance racing. With the 2025 Comrades Marathon scheduled for Sunday, June 8, Steyn is preparing to chase her third consecutive title. Her remarkable journey and relentless determination inspire runners across South Africa and make her a formidable force on race day.

The Rise of Gerda Steyn

Gerda Steyn’s journey in marathon running is nothing short of extraordinary. Her remarkable performance in various ultramarathons such as Two Oceans Marathon which she won six times has set her apart as a serious contender. Notably, Steyn won the Comrades Marathon 2023 down-run and 2024 up-run respectively with a time of 5:44:54 (2023) hours and 5:49:46 (2024) finishing almost 20 minutes ahead of her closest competitor. This victory cemented her position not only as the reigning champion but also as a vital part of Comrades Marathon history.

Goals and Expectations Ahead of 2025

In a recent media briefing at the Southern Sun Hotel, Steyn revealed the evolving nature of her goals for the upcoming marathon. She stressed that adaptability is crucial for her success. While many see her as the favorite, Steyn approaches the race with humility.

"I see myself as a student of this race," she said, highlighting her respect for the competition and the challenges ahead. This perspective helps her stay focused and maintain her competitive edge as she gears up for the 2025 race.

Embracing the Challenge

Gerda Steyn’s approach to running embodies a valuable life lesson, always remain a learner, regardless of success. This mindset opens her up to new strategies and insights, both in training and competition.

Preparing for the Comrades Marathon requires more than just speed, it calls for mental strength alongside careful preparation. Each year, thousands of runners across South Africa take on this endurance challenge. Steyn’s ability to manage these dynamics allows her to face the event with confidence.

Preparing for Glory

Steyn's impressive success results from a strict training sessions. As she gets ready for the 2025 Comrades Marathon, her daily routine includes long-distance runs, strength training, and focused recovery periods. Each component is carefully designed to boost her endurance and minimise the risk of injury.

Additionally, she prioritizes mental training. Steyn spends time visualising her race and mentally preparing for different scenarios. This commitment to both physical and mental preparation demonstrates her passion for running.

The Competition Landscape

Despite being the defending champion, Steyn acknowledges that the competition is always evolving. New athletes continuously enter the scene, bringing their own determination and talent. For instance, in 2024, several newcomers recorded impressive times, indicating that the 2025 race could bear unexpected results and challenges.

While Steyn is seen as a favorite, she respects her rivals' strengths and strategies. Each runner in the field has unique capabilities, adding excitement and unpredictability to the Comrades Marathon.

Community Support and Inspiration

Gerda Steyn is not just a champion; she is also a beloved figure in the running community. Her victories inspire many athletes and athletics fanatics, from those tackling ultramarathons to individuals participating in local fun runs. Her journey underscores the importance of community support. Through her involvement with local running clubs and charitable organizations, Steyn fosters a strong sense of togetherness in the sport. She believes that chasing dreams requires hard work and a support network that genuinely believes in you.

Looking Ahead to the Future

As the date for the 2025 Comrades Marathon is one day to go, anticipation builds among fans and competitors alike. Steyn’s quest for a historic third consecutive victory holds great significance, not only for her but for the entire sport. If she succeeds in this monumental feat, Steyn will further enhance her legacy within ultramarathons, serving as a guiding light for future generations of runners to come. She represents the characteristics desired in athletes: dedication, perseverance, and the ability to inspire.