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Comrades 2026: Kusche and Steyn rewrite history and win millions

Adnaan MohamedComrades Marathon, NewsLeave a Comment on Comrades 2026: Kusche and Steyn rewrite history and win millions
By Adnaan Mohamed

PIETERMARITZBURG – George Kusche and Gerda Steyn delivered one of the most remarkable days in Comrades Marathon history on Sunday, smashing long-standing Up Run records and each walking away with more than R2.3 million in prize money and incentive bonuses.

On a shortened 85.777km route, the fastest in recorded Up Run history, expectations of rapid times proved well founded as both champions produced performances that rewrote the record books.

Kusche stormed to victory in 5:15:56, obliterating the previous men’s Up Run record of 5:24:49 set by Leonid Shvetsov in 2008. His average pace of 3:40.99 per kilometre also eclipsed Vladimir Kotov’s long-standing benchmark for the best average pace.

Dutch defending champion Piet Wiersma finished second in 5:19:36, with South Africa’s Mbuti Mollo taking third in 5:21:31 after leading for much of the race. Great Britain’s Alex Milne and Japan’s Haruki Okayama also dipped beneath the previous course record, underlining the extraordinary pace of the contest.

For Kusche, the victory only became real at the finish line.

George Kusche stormed to victory and obliterated the previous men’s Up Run record and set a new benchmark for the best average pace.

“I honestly didn’t believe I was going to win until I crossed the finish line. Comrades is extremely hard mentally, and there was no way I could know that they were not going to catch me, so I pushed as hard as I could and hoped that nobody would pass me.”

The South African, who finished 12th on debut a year ago, made his decisive move after Mollo began to struggle late in the race and never looked back.

“Comrades is a nerve-wrecking experience. This past week it was very hard to think about anything except the Comrades, and I’m very grateful that everything worked out as planned. It’s a bit of a gamble by going out early, but luckily it paid off this time around,” he said.

Steyn was equally dominant in the women’s race, clocking 5:44:53 to improve on the Up Run record she established in 2024. She also lowered her own best average pace mark while securing a fifth Comrades title, made up of three Up Run victories and two Down Run triumphs.

“It is an honour to come away with another Comrades Marathon win and a new course record. It’s what I have been dreaming of and working for since the start of the year,” Steyn said.

“I ran this Comrades as if it was my last race, but after crossing the finish line I already know it was far from my last. I can’t imagine my life without this race and I’m already looking forward to the 2027 centenary edition.”

Zimbabwe’s Nobukhosi Tshuma claimed second in 5:53:36 after overcoming significant personal sacrifices during her preparation, while South Africa’s Irvette van Zyl completed the podium in 6:02:30.

The record-breaking performances also produced record-breaking rewards.

Kusche and Steyn each earned R2.322 million through victory prize money, the Cell C top-up, first South African incentives, Up Run record bonuses and the Cell C average pace incentive.

Comrades Marathon Association general manager Alain Dalais described the event as an outstanding rehearsal for next year’s centenary edition.

“We are incredibly proud of the 2026 race and our two record-breaking winners. George Kusche lived up to the pre-race expectation by shattering the men’s Up Run record, while Gerda Steyn joined some of the most illustrious legends of this great race with five wins.

“It was a fantastic elite race with record-breaking performances and a truly fitting spectacle for the 50th edition of the Up Run.”

Results of the 2026 Comrades Marathon

Top 10 Men
1 George Kusche              Nedbank Running Club GN                         South Africa                            5:15:56
2 Piet Wiersma                 Nedbank Running Club International           Netherlands                              5:19:36
3 Mbuti Mollo                  Maxed Elite KZN                                          South Africa                             5:21:31
4 Alex Milne                    Nedbank Running Club International           Great Britain                             5:22:29
5 Haruki Okayama           Nedbank Running Club International           Japan                                      5:24:46
6 Charles Lawrence          adidas                                                           United States of America         5:27:08
7 Lloyd Bosman               Nedbank Running Club SWD                      South Africa                             5:28:53
8 Nikolai Volkov               Nedbank Running Club International          ANA                                         5:28:59
9 Vasilii Korytkin             Kemerovo Runners                                      ANA                                         5:29:29
10 Tebogo Pulusa             Dwarsrivier Mine Athletic Club                   South Africa                             5:29:40

Top 10 Women
1 Gerda Steyn                   Hollywood Athletic Club CGA                      South Africa 5:44:53
2 Nobukhosi Tshuma        Entsika                                                         Zimbabwe 5:53:36
3 Irvette van Zyl               Hollywood Athletic Club CGA                      South Africa 6:02:30
4 Shelmith Muruiki          Entsika                                                          Kenya 6:06:38
5 Naomi Robinson           Nedbank Running Club International Great Britain 6:07:55
6 Loveness Madziva        Nedbank Running Club Zimbabwe Zimbabwe 6:09:54
7 Courtney Olsen             Hollywood Athletic Club International          United States of America 6:11:20
8 Dikiledi Majara             Nedbank Running Club AFS                       Lesotho 6:12:29
9 Jenet Mbhele                 Umzimkhulu Striders                                    South Africa 6:13:08
10 Carla Molinaro            Hollywood Athletic Club International        Great Britain 6:14:04

Tete Dijana and Piet Wiersma in blockbuster Comrades showdown

Adnaan MohamedComrades Marathon, News, PreviewLeave a Comment on Tete Dijana and Piet Wiersma in blockbuster Comrades showdown
Adnaan Mohamed

Three proven Comrades Marathon champions. Three very different motivations. One famous road between Durban and Pietermaritzburg.

The men’s elite race at Sunday’s Comrades Marathon has the ingredients of a modern classic, with defending Down Run champion Tete Dijana chasing history, 2024 Up Run winner Piet Wiersma hunting unfinished business and 2019 champion Edward Mothibi quietly building confidence inside a formidable Hollywood Athletics Club squad.

For Dijana, preparation has followed a familiar script.

The three-time Down Run champion says an injury-free training block and altitude camp in Dullstroom have laid a solid platform for another assault on the title, with the biggest adjustment coming in mindset rather than methodology.

“The preparation went well and injury free,” Dijana said.

“Our training stays more or less the same because the hills are always there, but mentally you have to approach it differently and put more emphasis on strength.”

Hollywood’s backing has also given him confidence throughout the campaign, although the defending champion is not buying into suggestions that there is no pressure.

“I’m defending. I have to deliver and make history for myself,” he said.

Alongside him is Mothibi, whose move to Hollywood has strengthened an already imposing purple challenge.

The 2019 winner says he has largely trusted the methods that brought success in previous years, with extra focus placed on improving speed to match a younger generation of contenders.

Hollywood AC’s Happy Bunch taking a break during training. Photo: Supplied

He believes some of his biggest rivals are the athletes he trains with every day.

“Tete is part of our Happy Bunch,” Mothibi said. “I know how fit those guys are because I train with them. Those are the competitors I understand best.”

Mothibi also praised Hollywood’s athlete-first approach, saying the club creates an environment free from unnecessary pressure while giving runners every opportunity to perform.

Standing in their way is Wiersma, whose remarkable rise has transformed him into one of the race’s biggest stars.

The Dutchman insists being labelled defending champion feels strange after winning the last Up Run rather than last year’s Down Run, though he believes this could be the strongest preparation of his career.

“I’ve done the best training of my life,” Wiersma said.

After overcoming illness earlier in the season and maintaining a carefully controlled routine, he arrives convinced he has given himself every possible chance.

His respect for Dijana and Mothibi remains evident despite the changing club colours.

“Before the race and after the race we’re friends,” he said.

“During the race we don’t show each other mercy, no matter what colours we’re wearing.”

Perhaps the strongest insight into Wiersma’s mindset comes from his description of unfinished business.

He has finished second by seconds, won while narrowly missing the course record and again fallen agonisingly short of victory.

Now he believes the depth of this year’s field could produce something special.

“With a field this strong, there’s a very high chance the course record will be broken,” he said.

For Wiersma, Comrades has changed his life, providing the platform to pursue professional running full time after shelving plans for a PhD.

Living and training in Kenya has also reshaped his perspective.

“The mindset there is incredible,” he said. “People wake up every day knowing they have to do everything right because it affects what happens months later.”

By sunrise on Sunday, predictions will count for little.

The road from Durban to Pietermaritzburg has a habit of humbling favourites and elevating dreamers.

If Dijana’s pursuit of history, Mothibi’s experience and Wiersma’s relentless ambition unfold as expected, the 2026 Comrades Marathon could produce another chapter worthy of its legendary status.

Mosiako in top form ahead of 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans half marathon showdown

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Mosiako in top form ahead of 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans half marathon showdown
By Adnaan Mohamed

Thabang Mosiako has timed his run into form with precision ahead of the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon on 12 April, delivering back-to-back performances that underline his intent to challenge for the title in Cape Town.

The Nedbank Running Club athlete produced a commanding victory at the Phakamile Mabija Human Rights Half Marathon in Kimberley, clocking 1:04:37 to set a new course record. He finished 1 minute and 23 seconds clear of teammate Joel Mmone.

“What a great race,” said Mosiako. “The road was smooth and safe, it was well organised and everything was indeed perfect. Overall, I am happy with my performance.”

That result followed a strong showing at the Paris Half Marathon on 8 March, where he ran 1:00:44 to finish third, the third fastest 21km time of his career.

The 31-year-old, who is the 2023 South African half marathon champion and one of the country’s fastest ever over the distance, believes improved race management has played a key role in his current form following his recent marathon campaigns.

“I think this time around I was smarter after my second marathon. I took enough rest, that’s why I didn’t struggle with the buildup phase and that led me to the shape I have now.”

Mosiako will return to Cape Town aiming to improve on last year’s fifth-place finish and replicate his victory in 2024.

“I’m going for the Two Oceans Half Marathon again to correct the mistake I made last year,” he said. “I’m just praying to remain injury free and to have consistency in training. I’m really happy about what’s coming my way.”

Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt believes Mosiako will be among the leading contenders.

“We’ve been watching Thabang Mosiako’s recent performances with great interest. His form in the lead-up to the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon powered by BYD certainly suggests that he is ready to challenge strongly for the title again. With athletes of this calibre lining up, we can expect an exciting and highly competitive race on 12 April.”

Race general manager Wade Bromfield echoed those sentiments.

“Thabang has shown impressive determination since finishing sixth last year, and his recent results indicate that he’ll arrive at the start line full of confidence. Performances like these add to the anticipation surrounding the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon powered by BYD, and we’re looking forward to seeing how the race unfolds with such a strong field competing for top honours.”

The 2026 event carries a combined prize purse of R2.6 million, with the half marathon offering R422 600, adding further incentive to an already competitive field.

Event Information

  • Thursday, 9 April: International Friendship Run
  • Friday, 10 April: Trail Run (07:00)
  • Saturday, 11 April: Ultra Marathon (05:15)
  • Sunday, 12 April: Half Marathon (06:15)

Total Prize Purse (2026): R2.6 million

  • Ultra Marathon: R2 177 400
  • Half Marathon: R422 600

Nedbank Running Club Invests in the Future of South African Running

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Nedbank Running Club Invests in the Future of South African Running
Nedbank Running Club is proud to announce a wave of exciting new signings for the 2026 season, reaffirming our commitment to the future of South African athletics. As one of the country’s most successful and respected running clubs, we believe that investing in young, emerging talent is the key to sustaining our nation’s proud tradition of excellence on the roads, tracks, and trails.
 

The foundation of our club’s legacy lies in discovering and developing future stars. Champions like Sipho Ngomane, Joseph Molaba, Claude Moshiywa, Bongmusa Mthembu, Ludwick Mammabolo, Gerda Steyn and Farwa Mentoor, Charne Bosman, Caroline Wostman —All of them household names in South African running—rose to prominence through the support and development opportunities that Nick B Sport incorporating Harmony and Nedbank Running Club’s offered them,” says Nick Bester, Nedbank Running Clubs National Manager, adding, “By focusing on talent identification and athlete development, we continue to set the pace for the sport nationwide.”

This year, we are especially excited to unveil a strong squad from the home ground of the Comrades marathon Association -KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), a region brimming with untapped potential like Bongmusa Mthembu and hunger for success. Athletes such as Sithembiso Mqhele, Musawenkosi Mthalane, Sinethemba Tshangase, Bonginkosi Mavuso, Thokozani Mbambo, Nathi Khanyezi ,Jenna Challenor , Fikile Mbuthuma ,Msawenkosi Nsibande and Dion Ross have joined the club, eager for the opportunity to highlight their talent on the biggest stages. We believe that with the right support and guidance, these runners will become household names in the years to come.

To support our athletes’ ambitions, Nedbank Running Club is investing in a series of high-performance training camps across the country:

–  Comrades and Two Oceans training camp in the Drakensberg mountains in Underberg and Bulwer, managed by Mthandeni Nene, is providing vital altitude and endurance preparation for our elite squad.

– Comrades training camp in Klerksdorp under the guidance of Pio Mpolokeng, featuring standout athletes such as ‘Onalenna Khonkhobe, Lucky Mohale, the Sibeko brothers (Samuel and Simon), Puseletso Mofokeng, Thabang Mosiako, and others, is sharpening the team’s competitive edge for the year’s biggest ultra.

– Two Oceans training camp in George, led by Lloyds Bosman, brings together a group of upcoming talented Nedbank RC stars, including Francois Maqhosa and Selwyn Mathews, to prepare for the unique demands of the Cape’s iconic race.

– Comrades training camp in Dullstroom where we combine our National athletes with our international athletes:

Names like Deanne Laubscher, Dominika Stelmach, Piet Wiersma etcetera.

Looking ahead to South Africa’s premier ultra-distance events, Nedbank Running Club is proud to highlight

Onalenna Khonkhobe and George Kusche as strong contenders for the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (TOM) and the iconic Comrades Marathon. Their performances and dedication position them among the top athletes to watch this season.

At the same time, we wish to acknowledge the departure of two of South Africa’s most celebrated ultramarathoners, Tete Dijana and Edward Mothibi. While their contracts have not been renewed due to their requested retainer rates exceeding what the club can sustainably offer, we hold the deepest respect for their achievements and contributions to the green dream. We wish Tete and Edward everything of the best as they continue their remarkable journeys.

Nedbank Running Club remains steadfast in its mission: to discover, develop, and champion the very best in South African running. Our investment in emerging talent today is an investment in the champions of tomorrow.

For more information on their athletes, events, and club initiatives, visit Nedbank Running Club’s website or follow them on social media.

Nick Bester-National Manager of the Nedbank Running Clubs.

Introducing the African Biathlon: A New Sport to Get Mzansi Moving

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Introducing the African Biathlon: A New Sport to Get Mzansi Moving

There’s an exciting new sport in town! The African Biathlon, unveiled today by the Nedbank Running Club—South Africa’s largest running community—is here to get South Africans moving with a fresh blend of energy, culture, and connection.

Traditionally, biathlon combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, activities that don’t quite suit our sunny climate. Enter the African Biathlon: a sport reimagined to reflect the vibrant spirit of Mzansi.

Here’s how it works: It kicks off with a 5km run, open to runners of all levels. But what sets the African Biathlon apart is the post-run activity—the “fun factor” designed to inspire more people to lace up their running shoes. These activities can be anything from catching up over coffee, exploring local art, wine-tasting, or even hitting a dance floor. The beauty of it? Participants choose the vibe, making every event as unique as its runners.

Research shows that 77% of local runners wish they had more running communities in their areas. The African Biathlon answers this call by combining fitness and social connection, bringing people together through shared passions.

“We wanted to create something fresh and inclusive,” says Edward Mothibi, Comrades Marathon champion and Nedbank Running Club member. “The African Biathlon isn’t just about running—it’s about celebrating our culture and having fun while staying active.”

The official launch happens in Johannesburg from February to March 2025, in collaboration with community running crews like Benchwarmers Running Club, Social Running Club, and Vault Running Club. Each event pairs a 5km run with post-run experiences in a welcoming, laid-back setting.

What makes it even more exciting? The running community will help shape the African Biathlon’s future by voting for their favorite post-run activities, making this sport a true reflection of South Africa’s creativity and diversity.

Khensani Nobanda, Nedbank’s Group Executive for Marketing and Corporate Affairs, adds: “At Nedbank, we’re all about giving our customers more time to spend on the things and people that matter most. The African Biathlon is more than a fitness initiative—it’s a celebration of community and culture. For anyone with fitness goals this year, it’s a fun and fresh way to stay motivated.”

Ready to join the movement that’s reshaping running in South Africa? Be part of the African Biathlon and cast your vote for the best post-run activities on our microsite today!

https://personal.nedbank.co.za/promotions/african-biathlon.html

Nedbank running club fields most competitive Comrades field to date

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Nedbank running club fields most competitive Comrades field to date

The Nedbank running club’s famous green Nike vests have dominated running events around the country, and even more so, the Comrades Marathon, dubbed the ultimate human race. 2024 is no different and at this years Comrades Marathon, the club has a record 48 athletes entered under elite status and will be looking for more than just a win.

“Without a doubt, this is the strongest and most competitive team we have ever had at the Comrades Marathon,” says Nick Bester, National team manager of the Nedbank running club and former race winner. “Besides having the defending champion of both the up run and down runs, we have multiple Comrades gold medallists that will take part this year as well as some very interesting novices who can perhaps spoil the party on the day.”

Leading the team will undoubtedly be the duo of Tete Dijana and Edward Mothibi. Coming into this year’s race, Mothibi is the defending up run champion with the race last going up to Pietermaritzburg in 2019, whilst Dijana has won the last two Comrades down runs back-to-back, which included last year’s record-breaking run. The two train together and are known as the happy bunch with gold medallist teammates Joseph Manyedi, Dan Matshailwe and Johannes Makgetla also returning this year.

Also returning will be Piet Wiersma. Referred to last year as the unknown dutchman, the youngster of the team finished 2nd on debut, only 3 seconds behind Dijana and this year has focussed solely on the Comrades Marathon, having prepared for the race in Kenya. “This year we have had athletes focussing on the race from all different corners of the globe,” said Bester. “Tete and the other guys had their base in Dullstroom for the high altitude and Piet chose to train in Kenya for the bulk of his Comrades prep.

Giving a serious attempt at Comrades this year will be Onalenna Khonkhobe who made a name for himself leading the 2022 Comrades Marathon all the way to Fields Hill. He has since grown in stature and this year was the runaway winner of the Two Oceans Marathon. Throw in Russian debutant Nikolay Volkov amongst many other Nedbank stars who will be in action, and the 2024 Comrades Marathon will be a treat for viewers watching at home on TV and for spectators along the route.

In the women’s race, South Africa’s Adele Broodryk leads the Nedbank running club challenge. Debuting in 2022, Broodryk finished 3rd and in last years race improved by one spot to not only finish 2nd, but run an amazing 5:56, to become the 3rd fastest female ever on the down run. Teammates Deanne Laubscher, Galaletsang Mekgoe and Slindile Chili will be looking to join Broodryk amongst the top 10 finishers on the day.

There is also an extraordinarily strong Nedbank running club international contingent coming down which will be led by Polish athlete Dominika Stelmach who is a multiple Comrades Marathon gold medallist. Ireland’s Caitriona Jennings finished on the podium at her debut Comrades up run in 2019 and will be looking for another repeat of that after a strong 7th place at this years Two Oceans Marathon. Running her first Comrades this year will be American Andrea Pomaranski who has been taking training advice from Bester. With a 2:31 marathon best and two sub 2:35 marathon finishers in 2024 already, Pomaranski looks to do something big on 9 June.

‘I worked intensively with Andrea and especially on her overall strength to make sure she can manage the uphill’s which will be complemented by her incredible speed as an Elite marathoner. What impressed me from her is that Andrea is listening and did do all the strength and cross training according to the program and reduced her total running mileage per week. I am expecting Andrea to be up there with the leaders on race day! ‘said Bester

“We have assembled the best possible team to date for this years Comrades and thanks to all of our sponsors, we have given all the athletes all they need in terms of preparations and camps, so all that is left now is the athletes to do their part and once again paint the streets green on 9 June,” said Bester.