Tete Dijana, South Africa’s ultramarathon sensation, made history once again by clinching his third Comrades Marathon title during the 2025 edition of this iconic race. With the sun rising over Pietermaritzburg on Sunday morning, Dijana set off with quiet determination and ended the day in Durban as the undisputed champion of the 89.98km ultra-distance event.
This win cements Dijana’s reputation as a Comrades legend, having previously secured victories in 2022 and 2023. Today’s win makes it a remarkable hat-trick, placing him in the rarefied air of athletes who have dominated one of the toughest races on the planet.
A Race of Power and Precision
From the start, Dijana showed incredible composure and strategy. He maintained a strong pace throughout the “down run” route from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. Spectators watched in awe as he pushed his limits and left his competitors chasing shadows.
The 2025 Comrades Marathon was no walk in the park. Dijana clocked an impressive unofficial time of 5 hours, 25 minutes, and 22 seconds, narrowly holding off a late charge from Dutch runner Piet Wiersma, who finished just eleven seconds behind him. Russian Nikolai Volkov secured third place, completing a truly international podium.
Dijana’s home supporters in Mahikeng celebrated his triumph with pride, as the local hero brought yet another gold medal home. His consistency, discipline, and passion have made him an icon not just in the North West province but across South Africa.
Gerda Steyn Dominates Women’s Race Again
In the women’s race, South Africa’s Gerda Steyn added another milestone to her glittering career. The 35-year-old runner secured her fourth Comrades Marathon win, finishing in 5 hours, 51 minutes, and 19 seconds.
Though her time was 6 minutes and 25 seconds slower than her record-setting performance in 2023, Steyn’s effort was nothing short of incredible. Her dominance in both “up” and “down” runs over the years has established her as one of the greatest female athletes in South African history.
Steyn’s poise, technique, and unbreakable spirit were on full display once again, proving why she remains a crowd favourite and a powerful inspiration to aspiring runners.
An Event Steeped in Tradition and Glory
The Comrades Marathon, often called “The Ultimate Human Race,” is known for testing the limits of human endurance. This year’s edition stayed true to that legacy, with thousands of runners participating and millions following the action across the country and online.
For many South Africans, the race is more than a sporting event – it’s a symbol of unity, resilience, and perseverance. Stories of ordinary people overcoming personal challenges to complete the grueling route remind us all of the power of determination.
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Tete Dijana’s third win and Gerda Steyn’s fourth title highlight the excellence and endurance that define South African sport. Their victories will inspire generations to come, proving that with hard work, focus, and heart, anything is possible.
As the streets of Durban echoed with cheers and celebrations, one thing became clear: the Comrades Marathon remains a shining beacon of South African pride and passion.
