Gerda Steyn enjoys 10km racing tour across the country

The seven-time Two Oceans and five-time Comrades champion has taken part in several major 10km races, including the Absa Run Your City Series, Spar Women’s 10km Challenge and Hollywoodbets 10km.

Steyn says she has enjoyed herself more than ever this year, managing to secure several top-10 finishes in a distance outside her speciality. 

The 36-year-old believes that choosing not to run a marathon this year allowed her to enjoy racing without putting too much pressure on herself.

"The tour was wonderful although I would've loved to see a little bit more of myself but I was also being realistic throughout my tour. I have to take a little bit of a mental break during the year to give myself some down time. This has also probably been the most enjoyable end to a year I've ever had in my running career."

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The smiling assassin says she still plans to compete in one more half-marathon before taking a break from racing. 

She will then turn her attention to longer training runs as she prepares to defend her titles at next year's Two Oceans and Comrades Marathons.

Despite receiving numerous race invitations from across the country, Steyn says she has to manage her racing schedule carefully to avoid over-racing. 

The experienced distance runner admits that while she would love to support as many events as possible, she must also listen to her body and keep her bigger goals in mind.