LISTEN: Gerda Steyn is not done conquering the marathon world yet: ‘I’m excited for what’s to come’

947’s Robert Marawa speaks with South African marathon athlete Gerda Steyn.

Listen below:

Did you know this iconic athlete only started her running journey at the age of 24? She joined a running club and only a few years later realised that this could be a career. 

Fast forward 11 years... she is a double Olympian, four-time Comrades and six-time Two Oceans Champion.

She also holds the Comrades Marathon record with a time of 5:44:54 from 2023. 

RELATED: Gerda Steyn bags 6th consecutive Two Oceans ultramarathon: 'I'm very grateful for the result'

“Running is such an inclusive sport, almost every person can try it and it brings together so many people… everyone can be part of it.” 

– Gerda Steyn, athlete

“I have no regrets… I still feel fresh today. Yes, I am 35, but I’ve got 10 years of running in my legs and that’s how I approach it and it makes me excited for what’s to come.” 

– Gerda Steyn, athlete

RELATED: The story of Gerda Steyn... from quantity surveyor to record-breaking athlete

Despite travelling across the world to run and represent South Africa, Steyn says she has a particular love for running at home.

There is nothing quite like Mzansi, after all. She particularly wants to conquer the Soweto Marathon. 

“If you race here in South Africa, the feeling is just different, it’s so personal. It feels like the supporters are shouting your name… there’s just so much more emotion involved and it's just so encouraging.” 

– Gerda Steyn, athlete 

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the discussion.