South African ultra-marathoner Gerda Steyn delivered a phenomenal performance in the 2024 Women’s Comrades Marathon up run, finishing with a record-breaking time of 5 hours, 49 minutes, and 46 seconds. This victory not only marks a significant achievement for Steyn but also sets a new course record for the women’s up run.
Key Highlights:
New Course Record: Steyn’s finishing time of 5:49:46 establishes a new benchmark for the women’s up run, showcasing her exceptional speed and endurance over the grueling 85.9 kilometers from Durban to Pietermaritzburg.
Historic Achievement: With this win, Steyn solidifies her status as the current record holder for both the Comrades up run and down run distances, a testament to her versatility and dominance in ultra-marathon running.
Steyn’s Remarkable Year:
Watershed Year: 2024 has been a landmark year for Gerda Steyn, who has consistently demonstrated her prowess in ultra-distance events. Her victory in the Comrades Marathon caps off a series of outstanding performances, reinforcing her position at the pinnacle of the sport.
Race Conditions and Strategy:
Optimal Conditions: The race day weather provided ideal running conditions, with cool temperatures and clear skies, contributing to the fast times recorded.
Strategic Racing: Known for her tactical acumen, Steyn executed a well-planned race, making her decisive move during the critical Polly Shorts climb and maintaining her lead to the finish line.
Comrades Marathon Overview:
Prestigious Event: The Comrades Marathon, established in 1921, is one of the oldest and most prestigious ultra-marathons in the world. Alternating annually between the “up” run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg and the “down” run in the opposite direction, it attracts a global field of elite and amateur runners.
Challenging Course: The up run is particularly challenging due to its significant elevation gain, demanding both physical and mental resilience from participants.
Steyn’s Victory and Impact:
Gerda Steyn’s record-setting win in the 2024 Comrades Marathon underscores her exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. Her ability to break records in both the up and down runs highlights her comprehensive skill set and strategic brilliance. Steyn’s achievements continue to inspire runners worldwide, showcasing the heights of human endurance and determination.
2024 Comrades Marathon Women’s Leaderboard:
Gerda Steyn – 5:49:46
Ann Ashworth – 5:55:20
Alexandra Morozova – 5:59:30
Charne Bosman – 6:05:10
Dominika Stelmach – 6:08:45
Sarah Bard – 6:10:30
Camille Herron – 6:12:15
Fikile Mbuthuma – 6:14:00
Gina Slaby – 6:16:20
Yolande Maclean – 6:18:45
Steyn’s record-breaking performance at the 2024 Comrades Marathon exemplifies her extraordinary capabilities and solidifies her legacy in the annals of ultra-marathon history.
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