Exclusive: Gerda Steyn’s Bold New Strategy Delivers Sixth Straight Two Oceans Victory

Gerda Steyn, the undisputed queen of the Two Oceans Marathon, has once again etched her name into the history books, securing a record-breaking sixth consecutive victory at the iconic event in Cape Town. With a time of 3:29:10, Steyn clinched the win in what was her third-fastest performance in the prestigious race.

Steyn’s victory comes with a new sense of pride and accomplishment as she continues to dominate the event. Her journey to the top this year, however, was shaped by a slightly altered strategy, adding a fresh layer to her already formidable game plan.

6-In-A-Row

Steyn reflected on the monumental win, emphasizing that this sixth victory was just as special, if not more so, than her previous triumphs. 

"The race was a success for me, I would've taken the race with any time to be honest. It was special to win it for the sixth time, and it's by no means any less than when I won the race last year and broke the record again. I am really pleased with how the race played out," said Steyn with a humble smile.

This victory wasn’t just about maintaining her winning streak. The marathon veteran decided to shake things up with a new approach to her strategy, one that had a dramatic impact on her performance.

A Bold New Strategy: Fast Out of the Gates

Known for her controlled, consistent pace, Steyn decided to take a more aggressive approach this year. 

"I did try and do something a bit different in the race. My strategy was to go out really fast and make everyone else pay tax, and it worked. It was a risk I was willing to take," she told SportsBoom.co.za. 

"Having won the race five times before, I was worried they would get used to the way I run the marathon. There was some really stiff competition this year."

Her decision to push the pace early was a calculated risk, but one she felt confident taking. Despite not breaking her record time, Steyn was pleased with the outcome. "I am really pleased with how the race played out," she reiterated. 

“I had a different strategy for this race, and it worked. I do want to keep going and retain the title next year. I am going home a really happy girl."

Just 2 Minutes and 16 Seconds

Steyn’s change in strategy may have cost her the record, but not by much. The record time of 3:26:54 remained out of reach by a narrow 2 minutes and 16 seconds. Reflecting on the slight miss, Steyn remained positive and proud of her performance.

"It was a comfortable race for me, but I wouldn't say it was easy because I am still testing my own limits, especially going out with a daring plan like that. I took a lot of confidence in my own abilities," she noted. 

"Obviously, I know the race really well, and I know how to win the race."

As Steyn neared the final stages of the race, she was resigned to the fact that the record was beyond her grasp. 

"Around 5 kilometers out, I knew I wouldn't get the record, so I started to relax and soak in the atmosphere of the race. It was quite enjoyable. I definitely won't forget this race."

The burning question now is: had Steyn not pushed the pace early, would she have been in the mix to set a new course record? Only time will tell if she will adapt her approach once again next year, but one thing is clear her ability to adapt and innovate has proven successful year after year.

A New Chapter: Changing Racing Clubs

Steyn also made headlines this year with a change in racing clubs. After years of success with Phantane Athletics Club, she made the switch to Hollywood Athletics Club in January, joining fellow competitors Irvette van Zyl and Loveness Madziva. The move, she said, was one of excitement and growth.

"I changed to Hollywood Athletics Club at the beginning of this year, which was an exciting move for me. The club has grown from strength to strength over the last couple of years."

"A couple of years ago, the club that started with the goal to help their employees live a healthy lifestyle, and now they're one of the strongest clubs in the country at the moment."

Being part of a club with such a strong foundation and roster of talented athletes has undoubtedly bolstered Steyn’s confidence. 

"To be part of such a strong force is really special, and to be with this monster team definitely, we are a force to be reckoned with," she said, clearly excited for the future.

Weather Challenges and Route Changes

Although, this year’s Two Oceans Half Marathon was not without its challenges. Due to a severe weather warning, the race organisers worked closely with the City of Cape Town to implement additional safety measures. The course was altered to ensure runner safety, with the addition of extra water stations, medical personnel, and adjustments to the start intervals to improve the flow of runners.

The change in the route, however, meant that breaking the half marathon record was not possible this year. The Two Oceans Marathon vice chairperson Angelo Kriger issued a statement on this matter.

"Start intervals were adjusted to ensure a smoother flow of runners along the route. An additional water station was placed at the entrance to Southern Cross Drive. Extra medically trained personnel were stationed at the same point. The Canterbury Road loop was removed from the route."

Looking Ahead

As Steyn sets her sights on next year, it’s clear that she’s far from finished. 

"I’m in good shape, and I’m sure I could break the record again in the future." 

Whether she tweaks her strategy again or maintains her winning formula, one thing is for certain, Gerda Steyn remains one of the sport’s most formidable and inspiring athletes.