Steyn’s remarkable running journey has unfolded like a perfectly paced ultra, patient beginnings, relentless consistency, and a finishing strength that leaves spectators breathless.
With six Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon victories and three course records, she has mastered the art of winning. Yet the honour that resonates deepest is not measured in minutes or medals, but in colour: blue.
Despite multiple victories and course records, Steyn describes receiving her Blue Number, her first permanent race number, as one of themost meaningful honours of her career.
Gerda Steyn TTOM Blue Number 6067 by Adnaan Mohamed
“Receiving my Blue Number at the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon was my first ever permanent race number, so it was a huge honour,” says Steyn. “It means that I am invested in the race in the same way as those who have completed it ten times or more.”
Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC, praised Steyn’s impact on the sport.
“Gerda is affectionately known by many nicknames: from ‘The Smiling Assassin’ to ‘The Darling of South African Road Running,’ ‘The Queen of SA Running,’ ‘The People’s Champion,’ and ‘Sunshine Lady.’ Each name tells a story of her talent, her dedication, and the joy she brings to the sport,” says Goldschmidt.
“Beyond her many nicknames and titles, what truly stands out is the way Gerda has captured the hearts of runners and fans across the country. Her achievements are matched only by the inspiration she provides to the running community.”
Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon General Manager Wade Bromfield added:
“Gerda embodies the spirit of this race. Her consistency, humility and record-breaking performances continue to raise the bar and inspire every runner who lines up on race day.”
“Being part of the BNC reminds me that running is deeply rooted in me and that I’m in it for the long term. No matter life’s circumstances, I’ve always been drawn back to this one start line.”
The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (TTOM), one of the world’s most iconic running events, has officially been confirmed for the weekend of 11-12 April 2026. The Board of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC today announced the appointment of Stillwater Sports as the official Staging and Commercial Partner. This partnership will ensure a world-class race experience for athletes, supporters, and the broader running community.
Widely known as “the world’s most beautiful marathon,” the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon continues to attract thousands of elite and recreational runners from across the globe. The confirmation of the 2026 event underscores a shared commitment by the Two Oceans Marathon NPC, and Stillwater Sports to elevate the race to new heights while celebrating its rich legacy.
🌊🏃♀️ The @TotalsportsSA Two Oceans Marathon is confirmed for 11–12 April 2026! 🎉
“The world’s most beautiful marathon” returns, now with Stillwater Sports as official partner. Get ready for an unforgettable #TTOM2026! 🌍✨
— Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (@2OceansMarathon) August 25, 2025
“The Two Oceans Marathon has a proud history, and this partnership marks a significant step forward in ensuring its future as a world-class event,” says Chris Goldschmidt, Chairman of the Board of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.
“We are confident that with Stillwater Sports’ proven expertise, alongside the continued support of Totalsports, the 2026 edition will set new benchmarks for excellence and inclusivity.”
With a reputation for delivering premier mass participation events, Stillwater Sports brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon.
“We are honoured to be entrusted with the staging and commercial delivery of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.
“This is a landmark event on the global running calendar, and with the backing of the Two Oceans Marathon Board, and Totalsports, our focus will be on delivering an excellent runner experience, and importantly increasing the runner value. We look forward to getting to work immediately.”
Planning for the 2026 edition is already underway, with exciting announcements set to be made in the coming weeks.
EVENT INFORMATION: Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon
Last month showed us that this was a very good decision, a debate is sometimes needed, and being able to tell both sides and let you decide is what we at Modern Athlete aim to do. This month’s topic: Do you think races should do away with tees and medals in favour of lowering entry costs? has brought two very unique viewpoints, first from Ashraf Orrie, Mr O, and second from Bruce King, Race Director of the Balwin Sport Jeppe Marathon. There is a lot more to consider than we thought there was, and this is why we love this space so much!
