Gerda Steyn continues to dominate South Africa’s ultramarathon scene, securing her sixth straight victory in the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon on Saturday.
Gerda Steyn reacts to winning sixth Two Oceans Ultra Marathon
Steyn crossed the finish line in Cape Town in 3 hours, 29 minutes, and 11 seconds.
Although she didn’t beat her personal best of 3:26:54 set in 2023, this year’s performance still ranked as the third-fastest time in the race’s history.
Steyn, who has become a household name in long-distance running, was visibly emotional at the finish line.
Speaking shortly after the race, she said, “It is an amazing feeling. I am really, really pleased by the results today.”
“It was once again just an amazing race. Thank you for all the support on the course. I was carried really on people’s shoulders today. So, very very grateful.”
Behind her, Shelmith Muriuki of Kenya finished second with a time of 3:37:51, while Lesotho’s Neheng Khatala, the reigning Soweto Marathon champion, came in third at 3:40:39.
Steyn’s win builds on a highly successful year, which already includes her record-breaking win at the 2024 Comrades Marathon. In that race, she clocked 5 hours, 49 minutes, and 46 seconds, marking her third consecutive Comrades win and setting a new course record in the process.
She remains the only woman to hold both the up and down run records for Comrades.
What’s the prize money? – Here’s what she walks away with
For her top finish in the women’s category, Steyn walks away with a prize of R250,000.
The Two Oceans Marathon awards equal prize money to both male and female athletes. The prize structure for the Open category — which includes runners of all ages under 40 — is set at R250,000 for first place, R125,000 for second, and R65,000 for third.
This win also qualifies her for additional awards if she is affiliated with a Western Province running club or finishes as the top South African athlete in specific categories.
However, her primary prize remains the R250,000 for finishing first.
Steyn’s continued excellence in ultra-marathons solidifies her reputation as one of South Africa’s greatest endurance athletes.
With this sixth Two Oceans Ultra Marathon win under her belt, she continues to build on a legacy defined by consistency, resilience, and unmatched performance in some of the most demanding races in the country.