Steyn targets historic seventh consecutive title at Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD

“I don’t think about the race as something that I have won 6 times, because every year is different,” admits Steyn. “A previous victory doesn’t guarantee a future victory, and each year, I have to put everything I have got into the preparation. I try to find ways to improve by building on previous performances. I would never allow myself to get too comfortable.”

It’s an approach that has served Steyn well since she first completed the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon in 14th position (4:15:44) in 2016. Using her usual Dullstroom training base to prepare for what is expected to be a highly competitive race against the likes of Irvette van Zyl, Neheng Khatala, Shelmith Muruiki and others, the Two Oceans course record holder (3:26:54) chose to do some of her training sessions with up and coming Omuhle Kubheka of the John Hamelett-led Pan African Resources elite running team. Rather than adopting an adversarial stance towards the likes of Kubheka, Steyn sees the importance of sharing her knowledge.

“It makes me extremely excited to see a young, talented athlete like Omuhle being so passionate about running. It feels like yesterday when I was in her shoes, desperate for advice from more experienced athletes and so it just feels right to try and spend time with her. Also, I train on my own most of the time and even though I am used to it, company makes the miles go by so fast. When you train with others, you share some of the load. We were all based in Dullstroom, training towards the same goals, so why not join forces and help each other where we can?”

It’s an outlook that has endeared the Hollywood Athletics Club star to the running public, making her one of the most recognised figures in South African sport with legions of adoring supporters. The pressure of expectant fans coupled with the status of being the jewel in the crown of the purple team that could sweep the women’s 56km podium, would turn most athletes into a shrinking violet. But not Steyn. She sees things differently, choosing to focus on herself and the variables she can control which improve her chances of success on race day.

“The race has grown so much in popularity and in quality so that means I have to make 110% sure that I am ready for the known as well as the unknown challenges that may come on race day,” she says. “For me, motivation comes with setting a target and trying to achieve it. Confidence comes from training and preparation. But to be successful, everything must go right on the day and if it doesn’t, I still have to be the one that can navigate through it better than anyone else.”

Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC: “Gerda Steyn has become synonymous with excellence at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD. Her remarkable run of victories over the past few years has not only elevated the level of competition, but has also inspired countless runners across South Africa and beyond. To be chasing a seventh consecutive title is truly extraordinary, and it speaks volumes about her dedication, discipline, and the champion mindset that she brings to the start line year after year.”

Also highlighting Steyn’s remarkable impact on the race, Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD General Manager Wade Bromfield commented: “Gerda Steyn’s impact on the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD has been nothing short of phenomenal. Her consistency, professionalism, and passion for the sport have made her a fan favourite and a role model for aspiring runners. The possibility of witnessing a historic seventh consecutive victory in the Mother City adds an exciting dimension to this year’s race and is something that both participants and spectators will be eagerly anticipating.”