She crossed the finish line smiling, but behind that moment was a mental and physical battle only few can truly understand.

Hot 102.7 Breakfast caught up with Gerda Steyn, fresh off her record-equalling fourth win at the Comrades Marathon — and what she shared is a masterclass in discipline, self-belief, and sheer will.

“It takes a lot of meticulous preparation… but it’s done with a huge pleasure. I would do it a hundred times over.”

Despite the pain in her legs and what she calls “the Comrades shuffle,” Gerda was upbeat, honest, and utterly inspiring. She opened up about sticking to her race plan, the rising pressure of being a defending champion, and what it takes to mentally go the distance.

“There’s expectation, yes – but it doesn’t affect how I run. I’ve got to stay the course, even when it hurts.”

In a race that saw her take the lead halfway and cling to it with a narrowing gap, Gerda’s focus never wavered. She also confirmed that celebration is part of the process — “I’m definitely the type of athlete who enjoys a cold drink and a big meal after a big race!”

“To win is incredible… but just being part of Comrades is something I treasure every single time.”

She’s already got her eyes on Two Oceans and Comrades 2026 — but first, it’s time to rest.

Listen to the full interview below to hear Gerda talk about training at 2am, the pressure of expectations, and how joy and grit can go hand in hand.