Gerda Steyn heartbroken by doping cases ahead of Comrades title defence

The Hollywood Athletics Club star, widely regarded as the queen of South African ultra-distance running, will line up for the 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon Up Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg chasing a fourth consecutive title and a fifth overall crown.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Steyn admitted that it is disappointing to see high-profile athletes caught violating anti-doping rules. She also urged young athletes, especially girls, to stay away from performance-enhancing drugs and focus on achieving success through hard work and dedication.

The two-time Olympian said she is determined to set a positive example and show young runners that success can be achieved honestly and fairly.

"I think doping in running is the single most awful thing about our sport. It's such a wonderful sport and it's great to be a part of it and to see some ultra-human performances sometimes.It is something that is so deeply emotional and something that grows your spirit, but unfortunately it's often tainted with doping. I make 120% sure that whatever I do or take is according to the rules because I want to sleep well at night knowing I can be an example for younger athletes."

READ: Hollywood Athletics Club feeling no pressure ahead of Comrades Marathon

Steyn says her preparations for this year’s Comrades Marathon have gone according to plan and she feels ready for the challenge ahead.

The 36-year-old believes she has done everything possible in training to give herself the best chance of standing on top of the podium once again in the demanding 85km race.

"My preparation for this year's Comrades has gone really well. I'm pleased with how everything went, especially after the Two Oceans earlier in the year. I feel like I've been on the right wavelength in terms of training and balancing that with being ready and fresh for every race."

Steyn remains confident that she can complete another remarkable ultra-marathon double by winning both the Two Oceans Marathon and the Comrades Marathon in the same year.

Having achieved the feat several times before, she says the combination has become a special goal for her each season and she is optimistic about repeating it once more.

"Since I started running the Comrades and the Two Oceans in one year, there were a lot comments and opinions but I've never allowed that to faze me. I know in myself whether it is too much or not and I've always felt like it's completely possible. This year is no different."

The multiple Comrades champion says people often assume winning has become easy for her, but insists every victory requires enormous sacrifice and hard work.

Steyn acknowledges that expectations continue to grow with each success, but she remains motivated as she chases a fourth consecutive Comrades title.