By: Lonwabo Mtyeku Photo Credit: Action Photo
Seen Here: Gerda Steyn on her way to victory at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon in 2025. Photo Credit: Action Photo
Cape Town, South Africa — All eyes will be on Gerda Steyn as she lines up for the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon 2026 on Saturday, 11 April 2026, chasing what would be a remarkable seventh consecutive title in one of the world’s most iconic road races.
Widely regarded as South Africa’s “ultra-distance queen,” Steyn has dominated the 56km race in recent years, rewriting expectations with her consistency, discipline, and record-breaking performances. Yet, despite her unprecedented success, the reigning champion remains grounded in her approach.
“I don’t think about the race as something that I have won six times,” Steyn explains. “Every year is different. A previous victory doesn’t guarantee a future one.”
Relentless Mindset Driving Greatness
Steyn’s philosophy has been central to her dominance. Rather than relying on past achievements, she approaches each race as a new challenge—one that demands total commitment and continuous improvement.
Her journey at Two Oceans began modestly in 2016, when she finished 14th. Since then, she has evolved into the race’s benchmark athlete, even setting a course record of 3:26:54—a time that cemented her legacy on the global ultra-running stage.
Preparation for the 2026 edition has once again been anchored in Dullstroom, her high-altitude training base. There, she has sharpened her endurance alongside emerging talents, including Omuhle Kubheka.
Seen Here: Gerda Steyn on her way to victory at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon in 2025. Photo Credit: Action Photo
Champion On and Off the Road
In a sport often defined by individual pursuit, Steyn’s willingness to mentor younger athletes stands out. Training alongside Kubheka and others, she has embraced a collaborative approach—sharing knowledge while drawing motivation from the next generation.
“It makes me excited to see young athletes so passionate,” she says. “We were all working towards the same goals, so why not help each other?”
Her humility and openness have only strengthened her bond with fans, making her one of the most admired figures in South African athletics.
Elite Field Raises the Stakes
Despite her dominance, the 2026 race promises fierce competition. Steyn is expected to face a strong field that includes Irvette van Zyl, Neheng Khatala, and Shelmith Muruiki—all capable of challenging for podium honours.
Race organisers believe Steyn’s presence elevates the entire event. According to leadership at the Two Oceans Marathon NPC, her dominance has not only intensified competition but inspired thousands of runners across the country.
A Race Beyond Records
For Steyn, however, the focus remains internal. Her motivation is rooted in preparation, resilience, and the ability to adapt when race-day variables shift.
“Confidence comes from training,” she notes. “But on race day, everything must come together—and if it doesn’t, you have to navigate through it better than anyone else.”
Event Details and Stakes
The 2026 Two Oceans Marathon weekend features a full programme of events:
- International Friendship Run: Thursday, 9 April
- Trail Run: Friday, 10 April (07:00)
- Ultra Marathon (56km): Saturday, 11 April (05:15)
- Half Marathon: Sunday, 12 April (06:15)
This year’s edition boasts a combined prize purse of R2.6 million, with the Ultra Marathon offering over R2.17 million, underscoring the race’s status as one of Africa’s premier road running events.
History Within Reach
As race day approaches, anticipation continues to build in Cape Town. A seventh consecutive victory would not only extend Steyn’s dominance but also place her firmly among the greatest ultra-distance runners in history.
In a race often dubbed “the world’s most beautiful marathon,” the stage is set for a potentially historic moment—one where excellence, endurance, and legacy converge on the streets of the Mother City.
