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Six-time Two Oceans Marathon champion Gerda Steyn says she does not consider herself an outright favourite ahead of the 56km ultra-marathon set for 11 April at the University of Cape Town.
Despite her dominance over the years, Steyn believes the competition continues to grow stronger and insists there are several talented athletes capable of pushing her all the way.
Her main priority, she says, is ensuring she is in peak physical condition as she targets a seventh consecutive, record-extending title.
Steyn expects athletes from Kenya and Ethiopia, along with strong local contenders, to pose a serious threat in what is regarded as one of the country’s most prestigious races.
"There is competition now from Kenya and Ethipia that I expect in the race, as well as other bordering countries. So it's not just the local athletes who are now posing competition for me – it's also other African countries. I have to be at my 100 percent best on race day, and that is why between now and the Two Oceans Marathon, it's all about that goal. It's all about crossing the line in first position, getting the most out of myself, and making sure that I am fit and ready for the challenge," said Steyn
The 35-year-old Hollywood Athletics Club runner has welcomed the increase in prize money for this year’s race, with both the men’s and women’s winners set to pocket R380 000 in April.
Steyn previously earned R250 000 for each of her six victories and says the increase is a positive step forward for the sport.
The two-time Olympian admits it is disappointing to once again miss out on contesting the Cape Town Marathon title.
She explains that this year’s edition, scheduled for 23 May, is too close to both the Two Oceans Marathon and the Comrades Marathon, making it difficult to fit into her programme.
With the Cape Town Marathon falling between the Two Oceans and Comrades, Steyn says it is not feasible to compete in all three events at her desired level.
"Yes, for me the Cape Town marathon is too close to be running the Two Oceans and Comrades this year. The two ultra-marathons are already quite close to each other.
"I know I have done it in the past, but I am not going to change my plans now. However, it would've been wonderful to get an opportunity to run Cape Town as we all know I missed out on last years race but I will be glued to my tv and watching the race very closely."
The former national marathon record holder is also setting her sights on adding a fifth Comrades Marathon title to her growing list of achievements in June.
