EXCLUSIVE: In conversation with Queen of the Comrades Gerda Steyn!

The South African

09-06-2025

Fresh off her fourth Comrades Marathon title, Gerda Steyn sat down with us to reflect on a race that tested her limits, sharpened her focus, and reinforced her love for ultra-distance running.
From near setbacks to surges of motivation, the South African running star opens up about the highs, the pressure, and the power of resilience.
Gerda Steyn cemented her legacy as South Africa's ultimate road warrior, storming to her fourth Comrades Marathon title in a thrilling 2025 edition of the iconic ultra. Clocking an impressive 5:51:19 on the brutal down run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban, Steyn didn't just win — she soared into the history books as the first South African woman to claim four Comrades titles.
From the early morning humidity to the thundering cheers at the finish line, Steyn ran a tactically brilliant race. Holding back in the opening stages, she surged past the field by the halfway point, her stride smooth and unrelenting through the Valley of a Thousand Hills. With every kilometre, her lead grew — and so did the roar of support from fans across the country.
Russian rival Aleksandra Morozova and Kenya's Shelmith Muriuki chased valiantly but couldn't match Steyn's composed dominance. When she crossed the line in Durban, arms raised and beaming with joy, she wasn't just a winner — she was a national icon.
With victories in 2019, 2023, 2024 and now 2025, Gerda Steyn is no longer chasing legends — she is one. But apart from solidifying her legacy in ultra-marathon running and in the annals of South African sport, her unparalleled success at this event continues to inspire athletes and fans worldwide.
Following her victory, Steyn expressed her gratitude for the support from the South African public and reiterated her dedication to inspiring the next generation of runners.
How did it feel crossing the finish line as Comrades champion once again?
It was an immense moment for me. I've dreamed about it for so long, and to cross the finish line in first place again was truly special.
Did this year's race unfold the way you had planned or were there expected challenges?
It unfolded largely as I had planned. I had a race strategy in mind and aimed to adhere to it as closely as possible. However, it's important to remember that winning the race is the priority; you shouldn't let a race plan override that. I monitored my competitors' moves and tactics throughout the race and adjusted my strategy accordingly. Ultimately, I crossed the finish line in first place and achieved a time close to what I had aimed for. Overall, I'm very pleased.
What was the most difficult moment for you during the race, and how did you push through it?
Late in the race, as we descended Fields Hill, I heard that the second-place woman was closing the gap significantly. That was a challenging moment for me. It was then that I recalled the Omo slogan, 'Stay unbeatable.' It motivated me to stay focused and do everything in my power to maintain my lead and remain unbeatable.
Were there any specific turning points where you felt the win was within reach after that scare down at Fields Hills?
Honestly, it stayed on my mind all the way to the finish. However, it also motivated me to stay focused and ensure that I didn't celebrate too early or become complacent, as I was still in a highly competitive race.
How did this year's Comrades compare to your precious experiences?
I've participated in the Comrades eight times and won it four times. I often get asked if it's becoming repetitive or if I'm becoming too comfortable and perhaps complacent. However, I can't explain the allure except to say that every year, the Comrades Marathon feels bigger and more meaningful. It has become such an integral part of my daily life and mindset that each year holds more significance than the last. This win is more meaningful than any other race I've ever won at the Comrades.
What kind of mental preparation goes into a race like the Comrades?
It's a long day on the road, so you must prepare your mind to stay positive throughout the race. You need to train yourself to remain optimistic and understand that even when facing difficulties, you can rise and recover from setbacks. This type of mental strength and self-belief will carry you much further than physical strength. It's a crucial aspect of success in ultra-running.
How did you stay motivated during the long training months leading up to such a demanding ultra?
Motivation isn't something I struggle with. I'm fortunate that I get to run as my profession. Running is something I love to do, and I want to run every day. Sometimes, it's challenging to get out the door when the weather conditions aren't ideal. However, my deep passion for this sport and the knowledge that participating in the Comrades inspires and holds meaning for more people than just myself and my immediate family drive me and keep me motivated.
How does the knowledge that you inspire thousands upon thousands, perhaps millions, of other people make you feel? Does it add pressure on you?
It's a feeling beyond measure. I don't perceive it as added pressure; I see it as an honour. It provides me the opportunity to set an example for young people aspiring to become athletes or for anyone who simply wants to take up running as a hobby. As the winner of this race, it's your responsibility to be exemplary for those who look up to you.
How are you feeling physically and emotionally after such a monumental effort?
Physically, I have a bit of a funny walk at the moment [laughs]. However, the emotional jubilation far outweighs the physical pain in many ways. Experiencing something like this isn't rare, but I try to cherish and appreciate it in all the little and big ways I can.
What do the next few days of recovery look like for you?
The days after a race are often quite busy because there are many events I have to attend and obligations to honour. But it's all part and parcel of the job, so I'm not complaining at all. Once the dust settles, I'll enjoy some downtime with my family to celebrate properly, as I don't get to do many family social activities when I'm running and training.
Who has been the biggest supporter on your journey to this win?
One person who stands out head and shoulders above the rest is my husband. He shares my passion for running, but he sacrifices all his spare time to support me and ensure I have everything I need to perform at my best.
Is there anyone you'd like to dedicate this victory to?
At the finish line, I said this victory is for every single person who supports me—everyone out there on the road cheering for me, my husband, my parents, my extended family, and my friends. I'm not sure they fully realise how much meaning their support adds to my running and, ultimately, to my success.
With this accomplishment in the bag, what is the next big challenge for Garda Steyn?
To stay unbeatable for as long as I possibly can at the Comrades. After that, I'd like to run another marathon later this year—perhaps the Soweto Marathon, since I've never done it before. That's not 100% confirmed yet, but once I've recovered from this Comrades, I'd like to start training for a race toward the end of the year.
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