Gerda Steyn primed for fourth Comrades title
South African
marathon sensation Gerda Steyn is poised for another landmark
performance at the upcoming Comrades Marathon, scheduled for Sunday.
South African marathon sensation Gerda Steyn is poised for another landmark performance at the upcoming Comrades Marathon, scheduled for Sunday.
As an acclaimed figure in ultramarathon racing, Steyn holds the current record for the Comrades Down Run, having clocked an impressive 5:44:54 in 2023 - a time that made her the fourth woman to ever complete the race in under six hours.
Speaking on East Coast Breakfast on Monday, Steyn reflected on her final preparations for the race. Now in KwaZulu-Natal, she highlighted the importance of rest and recovery, emphasising that her priority is to arrive at the start line ready and healthy.
While a potential record-breaking performance draws significant attention, Steyn's primary objective remains securing another victory. "You can’t focus on times and records too much when you want to win the race," she explained, stressing that outpacing her competitors is her strategy for success.
With formidable competition anticipated this year, Steyn is energised by the depth and talent within the field, viewing the challenging lineup as motivation to push her own limits.
For those tackling the Comrades for the first time, Steyn extended words of encouragement, suggesting they manage their nerves and embrace the unique experience. The decision to participate, she believes, already marks a considerable accomplishment.
Camaraderie is a hallmark of the Comrades Marathon, and Steyn underscored the communal spirit that characterises the event. She advocated for participants to uplift each other, leveraging collective support to conquer the gruelling race.
Facing the marathon's inevitable challenges, Steyn remains steadfast. Her advice to fellow runners is to persist through adversity, guided by the mantra, “It’s not over until it’s over.”
As the race approaches, Steyn stands not only as a formidable athlete but also as a source of inspiration. Her resilience and determination offer a powerful testament to the spirit of one of South Africa’s most prestigious sporting events.
Listen to the full interview at the top of the page, or directly below:
Gerda’s advice for first-time Comrades runners
Gerda Steyn offers valuable guidance for those tackling the Comrades Marathon for the first time. Here are her key pieces of advice:
- Keep Nerves in Check: Don’t let anxiety overshadow your experience. Embrace the unique journey of your first Comrades.
- Cherish the Decision: Recognise that deciding to participate is a significant achievement on its own.
- Connect with Others: Leverage the camaraderie on the course, supporting and encouraging your fellow runners.
- Stay Determined: When faced with challenges during the race, remember that it’s not over until it’s over; persistence is key.
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