Gerda Steyn clinches historic fourth Comrades Marathon title

The 35-year-old made history twice in one day: she became the first South African woman to win the "Ultimate Human Race" four times, breaking the previous tie with five local athletes who each held three titles.

Steyn dominated the 89km down run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban, which featured over 20,000 runners, securing her legacy as the most decorated female runner in the event’s history.

This is her third consecutive win in a row.

She also became the first South African to win the Comrades for three different clubs—first in 2019 for Nedbank Running Club, then in 2023 and 2024 for Phantane, and this year for Hollywood Athletics Club.

Steyn achieved another remarkable feat by completing the Two Oceans and Comrades Marathon double in the same year for the third time—an unprecedented accomplishment.

She crossed the finish line in 5 hours, 51 minutes, and 19 seconds, earning more than R1 million in prize money: R874,000 for the victory, R500,000 for her average speed, and R220,000 for being the first South African woman across the line.

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Former Ultimate Human Race champion Alexandra Morozova gave Gerda Steyn a tough challenge, finishing a close second in 5:55:56.

Kenya’s Shelmith Muriuki made history by becoming the first runner from her country to crack the top ten, claiming third place in 6:07:56.

Steyn was clearly delighted with her victory but admitted she hadn’t anticipated being challenged right up to the finish.

The crowd erupted in cheers as she crossed the line at People’s Park, where Olympic gold medallist Caster Semenya welcomed her with a rose.

“I’m likely standing on the shoulders of those who came before me in the Comrades Marathon—runners who built a legacy through their achievements. Winning it three times in a row is incredibly special.

I’ve consistently proven that I’m not a one-hit wonder. I didn’t win once and vanish; I’ve stayed in the game and shown my commitment. Securing a third consecutive title—and a fourth overall—means a great deal to me. I’m truly passionate about this race, and to claim this victory while representing my third different club, Hollywood Athletics Club, makes it even more meaningful. This was a hard-fought and emotional win,” said a triumphant Steyn.

“It’s truly an honour to win this race again,” she said.

“Since joining Hollywood Athletics Club, I’ve felt a strong connection.

They’ve never pressured me to win, and that freedom has allowed me to perform at my best.

I really wanted to represent them well at this year’s Comrades.” Steyn also expressed gratitude to her family and said she now plans to take a short break before turning her focus to a marathon later this year.