Meet the 2024 Comrades Marathon champions
As these two legendary runners crossed the finish line, KZN rejoiced in celebration.
Dreams were made, victories were embraced, and, for many, this was the best day of their life.
This weekend, the rubber met the road for Comrades runners who conquered the 97th Comrades Marathon. The Up Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg was no easy journey, it was one that required strength, training, and serious endurance.
This iconic event drew thousands of runners from around the world, each testing their grit and determination over an 89km course. This year was particularly special for SA's foremost female runner, Gerda Steyn, who clinched the top spot and broke a record. She finished the race in 5:49:46, making it a new course record.
Read More: Meet the man who is running his 50th Comrades Marathon!
The first runner overall and for the male category was Piet Wiersma, known as "the unknown Dutchman", but in yesterday's case he was the Flying Dutchman!
Wiersma, who is from the Netherlands, was the clinical men’s winner of the Comrades Marathon Up Run, crossing the finish line in Pietermaritzburg in 5hr 25min 00sec.
Mike V shares scenes live from the finish line with these Comrades athletes:
As shared by Gerda, "The Up Run comes down to pacing and strength."
While this tough run is no walk in the park, it is something Gerda wishes that everyone can experience. "You are a part of something so big and so spectacular and that carried me all the way to the finish line," Gerda remarks.
Read More: Comrades Marathon goes the extra mile for this April Fool's prank
Stay tuned for more as we bring you updates on the ultimate human race.
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