Shaina-Rae’s remarkable Comrades Marathon journey

Updated June 10, 2025, 8:25 a.m. | By East Coast Breakfast

Shaina Rae smashed her Comrades Marathon debut goal with a jaw-dropping 10:47 finish; proving that heart, hustle, and a whole lot of support can take you way further than expected!

Shaina-Rae’s remarkable Comrades Marathon journey — Shaina-Rae / Just Capture Media

On a momentous day that will forever be etched in the memories of many, Shaina Rae defied expectations and completed her very first Comrades Marathon in a breathtaking 10 hours and 47 minutes.

This is more than just a race recap; it's a celebration of Shaina's determination and the unwavering support she received along the way.

Shaina-Rae Comrades finish — Julian Carelsen / Just Capture Media

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Before the race, Shaina was candid about her predicted finish time. She expressed, "It was 1000000% unexpected. I genuinely was gunning for an 11:30."

Her modest goal was set to redefine her personal best, with timing plots that hinted at an 11:20 finish. Yet, surpassing even her own projections, she blazed through the course.

Reflecting on the race, she shared, "I got to halfway and someone was like, you realise you're gonna get a sub-11." Even her own disbelief turned into reality when she shared an emotional connection with her mother.

"My mom phoned me with tears in her eyes, saying, I will not believe what her finishing time was when she ran her first Comrades ever, and it was 10:47."

Shaina attributes much of her success to the spirit of supporters cheering her on. "The people on the side of the road screaming, 'Go Shaina Rae, come on, you've got this,' just pull you through," she recalled, emphasising the profound impact the crowd had on her resolve to persevere, even when faced with challenges like nerve pain early in the race.

Shaina's journey was not without its difficulties, including bouts of pain that challenged her mid-race fortitude. "I started to panic like 18kms in because my nerve and glute started pinching," Shaina recounted.

Her journey from Hillcrest, rich with familiar faces and voices, added to her strength. "Seeing everyone I know, like our team members... I was speechless," she said, marking this point as a pivotal emotional boost that carried her to the finish line.

Listen to the full interview below:

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Shaina Rae Bauwens, with an indomitable spirit and a finish time that stunned everyone, even herself, has truly earned the title of legend.

Her story is not just about a race but is an enduring testament to resilience, grit, and the power of community. Shaina, good luck with your recovery, and here's to whatever incredible achievements await you next!