Gerda Steyn, born on March 3, 1990, in Bothaville, Free State, South Africa, has emerged as a prominent figure in long-distance running. Before her athletic career, she pursued a degree in quantity surveying from the University of the Free State.
Post-graduation, Steyn relocated to Dubai to work in her field. It was there, at the age of 24, that she joined a running club, marking the inception of her journey into competitive athletics.
Steyn’s foray into professional running began in 2014. Her dedication and rapid progress led her to notable achievements in both national and international events. She was affiliated with the Phantane Athletics Club and, according to reports, self-coached.
In January 2025 Gerda Steyn joined one of the biggest clubs in South Africa, Hollywood athletics club.
The announcement was made during a special event at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse in Durban, marking her introduction to “The Purple Team.”
Personal Bests (PBs)
These are her verified PBs for different distances she has ran
- 5 km: 15:45 (Kingsley, 2020)
- 10 km: 32:24 (Dubai, 2020)
- Half Marathon: 1:10:55 (Ras Al Khaimah, 2020)
- Marathon: 2:24:03 (Valencia Marathon, 2023)
Major Achievements
Gerda Steyn has become the symbol of women long distance running, she has so many achievements in South Africa dominating most marathons and half marathons she participates in.
She is the current record holder of Comrades Marathon and Two oceans marathon. Check some of her achievements below.
| Year | Event | Result | Time |
| 2018 | Two Oceans Marathon | 1st | 3:39:32 |
| 2019 | Two Oceans Marathon | 1st | 3:31:28 |
| 2019 | Comrades Marathon (Up-run) | 1st | 5:58:53 |
| 2021 | Xiamen Tuscany Marathon | SA Record | 2:25:28 |
| 2023 | Valencia Marathon | SA Record | 2:24:03 |
| 2023 | Comrades Marathon (Down-run) | 1st | 5:44:54 |
| 2024 | Two Oceans Marathon | 1st | 3:26:54 |
In 2019, Steyn made history by winning the Comrades Marathon up-run in 5:58:53, becoming the first woman to complete the course in under six hours.
She continued her record-breaking streak by setting a new South African marathon record at the Xiamen Tuscany Camp Elite Marathon in 2021, finishing in 2:25:28.
This record was further improved in 2023 at the Valencia Marathon, where she clocked 2:24:03. The record now is currently held by another elite South African female runner Glenrose Xaba since 2024.
Additionally, Steyn secured multiple victories at the Two Oceans Marathon, with her 2024 win marking her fifth consecutive title and a course record of 3:26:54.
She is best known for smiling throughout the race from start to finish as if she feels no difficulty at all. She waves at fans and spectators along the road as she runs, something most of them appreciate.
Beyond Running (Personal Life)
Beyond her athletic endeavors, Steyn’s personal life reflects her diverse interests. She is married to Duncan Ross, who has been a supportive partner throughout her journey. Her background in quantity surveying and her experiences working abroad have contributed to her multifaceted persona, balancing professional commitments with her passion for running.
Steyn’s evolution from a novice runner in Dubai to a record-setting athlete on the global stage underscores her dedication and resilience. Her achievements have not only elevated South African long-distance running but also serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide.
