On Saturday, Gerda Steyn made history by clinching her sixth consecutive Two Oceans Marathon title, a remarkable achievement that solidifies her dominance in South African long-distance running.
The Hollywood Athletics Club athlete maintained her position at the front from the very start of the race, finishing with an impressive time of 3:29:11 at the UCT rugby fields.
Reflecting on the Win
After crossing the finish line, Steyn expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am so proud to be here and be able to use my God-given talent. To enjoy it in the way that I do is nothing but a blessing.
I am thankful for how today played out.” She also shared that her race strategy had worked out perfectly.
“I planned to go a little bit faster in the first half of the race, aiming to be about a minute quicker than last year.
It’s a big jump, but I was right on track.”
No Regrets Despite the Record Incentive
While the race’s title sponsors offered a tempting R250,000 incentive for breaking the record, Steyn emphasized that this wasn’t her primary focus. “I am not at all disappointed.
I feel it was 100 percent successful. You can’t always break the record. Getting a sixth victory in a row is a 10 out of 10.
The key was pacing myself well, and I opened up a gap early on. It gave me room to relax and stay motivated.”
A Strong Showing of Support
Throughout the race, Steyn was met with overwhelming support from the crowd, which she deeply appreciated.
“From the first kilometer, it was just ‘Go, Gerda, Go!’ every step of the way.
The support was incredible, and I hope my performance today can reflect that love and motivation.”
International Competition
Kenya’s Shelmith Muriuki finished in second place with a time of 3:37:51, while Neheng Khatala of Lesotho came in third at 3:40:39.
The top 10 women’s finishers are as follows:
- Gerda Steyn (RSA) – 03:29:11
- Shelmith Muriuki (KEN) – 03:37:51
- Neheng Khatala (LSO) – 03:40:39
- Carla Natalia Molinaro (GBR) – 03:43:45
- Dikeledi Majara (LSO) – 03:46:24
- Nobuhle Tshuma (ZIM) – 03:51:13
- Worke Amena (ETH) – 03:51:57
- Meseret Biru (ETH) – 03:53:19
- Landie Greyling (RSA) – 03:57:39
- Deanné Laubscher (RSA) – 03:59:12
Men’s Race Surprises
In the men’s race, Lesotho’s Khoarahlane Seutloali pulled off a surprising victory with a time of 3:10:46.
South Africa’s Siboniso Sikhakhane took second place in 3:11:17, just ahead of his compatriot Lucky Mohale, who finished third in 3:11:26.
Looking Ahead
As the Two Oceans Marathon continues to captivate athletes and spectators alike, Steyn’s triumph stands as a testament to her resilience and skill.
The race also highlighted the growing international competition, setting the stage for more exciting events in the world of long-distance running.
