The University of the Free State (UFS) congratulates alumna Gerda Steyn on securing her fifth Comrades Marathon title, adding another remarkable chapter to an already illustrious career and further cementing her status as one of South Africa’s greatest endurance athletes.
Her victory was a defining moment for the many Kovsies who participated in, supported, and followed the 2026 Comrades Marathon - the world's oldest and largest ultramarathon.
"Gerda’s fifth Comrades Marathon victory is an extraordinary achievement and a moment of immense pride for the University of the Free State," said Prof Hester C. Klopper, Vice-Chancellor and Principal. "Through years of dedication, discipline, and perseverance, she has demonstrated what is possible when talent is matched by purpose and hard work."
Steyn delivered another outstanding performance in the women’s race, crossing the finish line first to claim her fifth Comrades crown. Her latest triumph places her among the legends of the iconic ultramarathon and underscores the consistency, determination, and excellence that have defined her career.
A race run according to plan
Reflecting on her victory, Steyn described the 2026 Comrades Marathon as a more comfortable race than previous editions.
“I love the Up Run. I always feel a little more comfortable sticking to my plan from the start,” she said.
Steyn also acknowledged the strength of the competition.
“I had a lot of strong competition until the late stages of the race. I just had to follow the plan and was able to enjoy the last 8 kilometres.”
Sharing her race strategy, she said: “I thought I would run somewhere between 5 hours and 45 minutes and 5 hours 47 minutes. It is a day I worked hard for. For all to come together is a humbling experience, and I will cherish it forever.”
South African athletes shine on the international stage
South Africans dominated this year’s Comrades Marathon, with Steyn winning the women’s race and George Kusche claiming victory in the men’s Up Run. Kusche completed the 85.77 km route in a record-breaking time of 5:15:56, eclipsing the previous course record set in 2008.
Their performances ensured that both Comrades titles remained in South African hands and provided a fitting celebration of the country’s endurance running excellence.
“Having two South African champions - this race means so much to us, the supporters, and people watching on TV. It is an inspirational event, something that resembles of our nation and how we come together, work together, and suffer together. To come away with two South African champions is amazing,” said Steyn.
Looking back on her Comrades career, Steyn said that each race still feels like a new experience.
“I have a renewed energy, renewed motivation to do it. For me to line up here again for the record is more than fulfilling. I cannot wait for next year, and I will give my all.”
Eyeing the centenary Comrades Marathon
Looking ahead to 2027, when the Comrades Marathon celebrates its 100th anniversary, Steyn reflected on her remarkable journey in the race.
“I never thought I would even win one Comrades. For me, it is about taking each year on its own. I do not think about counting it up to get to double digits. If that adds up to double digits, it would be an honour for me. Being in the moment and living in the moment is what I aim to do.”
Prof Klopper said Steyn’s achievements continue to inspire the broader UFS community.
“As a Kovsie alumna, Gerda continues to inspire not only athletes, but also our students, staff, and alumni community. Her success reminds us that excellence is built over time, through resilience, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to one's goals. We congratulate her on this historic milestone and celebrate the role-model and example she sets for South Africans and future generations of Kovsies."
A memorable Comrades for the UFS community
This year's race also saw members of the UFS community take on the challenging 85.77 km route. Staff, students, and alumni joined thousands of runners from across South Africa and around the world in testing their endurance on the iconic Up Run between Durban and Pietermaritzburg.
For many Kovsies, sharing in the experience of the world's oldest and largest ultramarathon made Steyn's historic victory even more meaningful.
As staff, students, and alumni reflected on their own Comrades Marathon journeys, Steyn's fifth title served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment. Her achievement remains a source of immense pride for the UFS community and an inspiration to future generations of Kovsies.