South Africa’s Gerda Steyn cemented her place in Comrades Marathon history on Sunday, claiming her third victory and a record-breaking time. Steyn’s dominance wasn’t just about glory; it came with a hefty R2 million payout, solidifying her status as a legend in the Comrades Marathon and the world of ultramarathons.
Steyn Shatters Records and Claims Millions
The 2024 Comrades Marathon, held in the “Up Run” format for the first time since 2019, saw Steyn, the defending champion, dominate the field. She crossed the finish line at the Scottsville Racecourse in a phenomenal 5 hours, 49 minutes, and 46 seconds, shattering her own 2019 Up Run record by a staggering nine minutes.
This record-breaking feat wasn’t just for bragging rights. Steyn’s impressive performance earned her a significant portion of the Comrades Marathon’s massive prize purse. Her winnings break down as follows:
- R825,000: Race winner prize money
- R500,000: Up-run course record bonus
- R500,000: Fastest-ever average pace bonus
- R200,000: First South African home bonus
- R50,000: Cell C Hot Spot incentive
These bonuses add up to a cool R2 million (approximately $217,000), a testament to Steyn’s exceptional talent and unwavering dedication on the Comrades Marathon course.
Steyn dominates Comrades Marathon
Steyn’s well-executed race strategy saw her maintain a blistering pace throughout, leaving her competitors in the dust. Russian runner Alexandra Morozova, the 2022 champion, could only manage a distant second in 6 hours, 5 minutes, and 12 seconds. American hopeful Courtney Olsen rounded out the podium in 6 hours, 8 minutes, and 9 seconds.
This victory adds another chapter to Steyn’s already impressive Comrades Marathon legacy. She holds both the “Up Run” and “Down Run” course records, a feat that has eluded many champions before her. With her sights potentially set on the upcoming Olympics, Gerda Steyn continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of ultramarathon.
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