By Adnaan Mohamed
The numbers attached to Gerda Steyn’s career are extraordinary, though the woman herself continues to speak with the calm certainty of someone more interested in preparation than praise.
Four Comrades Marathon victories. Seven Two Oceans Ultra Marathon titles. Countless records and unforgettable performances.
On Sunday, the Hollywood Athletics Club star will line up in Durban chasing a fifth Comrades crown, convinced that another carefully crafted build-up has left her exactly where she wants to be.
“I can’t believe we are here again. It feels like yesterday that we were lining up for the down run of 2025,” Steyn told Modern Athlete in an exclusive interview.
“I’m very excited to line up this year. The training has gone really well. The Up Run is my favourite direction. I’m really excited, so I can’t wait for Sunday.”
That preference is rooted in both emotion and experience.
Steyn says the climb to Pietermaritzburg rewards discipline, patience and intelligent pacing, qualities that have become trademarks of her racing style.
“I think the Up Run suits me as a type of athlete that I am. It is a lot to do with pacing yourself well, conserving your energy very well in the first half and running smart. You need a lot of strength to compete well in the Up Run.”
It also carries sentimental value.
“It was my first ever Comrades Marathon, so that’s how I fell in love with the race. To line up again this year is very special.”
As in previous campaigns, Steyn spent much of her preparation in the Alps following the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon, using the relentless climbs and descents to sharpen her endurance.
“I’ve always done the exact same routine. I feel like it’s the right thing for me to do. I can focus 100% on running and you either go steep up or steep down, which really complements the training.”
She returned to South Africa earlier than usual and settled in Dullstroom, where familiar surroundings and sessions alongside Hollywood teammates provided a valuable psychological lift.
“We were fortunate enough to share the roads with Tete, Edward and Johannes and the rest of the Hollywood guys. They are such a positive group with a wonderful dynamic. It was a great way to finish the training and line up with excitement.”
With another slightly shortened Up Run route, speculation around a possible course record has gathered momentum.
Steyn refuses to be distracted.
“My first goal is really to defend my title. If that comes with a record and I feel good on the day and everything goes according to plan, I’m sure it is possible.”
Looking back at her preparation compared to 2024, she believes there is room for something special.
“I think there’s room for it. Everything has to go according to plan and I mustn’t focus on the record so much that I forget to focus.”
It is a mindset that has carried her to the summit of South African ultra-distance running before.
On Sunday, she will trust it again.