The 2025 Comrades Marathon, one of the most prestigious ultramarathons in the world, saw two outstanding athletes, Tete Dijana and Gerda Steyn, take top honors in KwaZulu-Natal. Their exceptional performances not only earned them the coveted titles but also significant financial rewards, with both champions surpassing R1.5 million in prize money and bonuses. Here’s a closer look at their extraordinary victories and the well-deserved rewards they took home.
Tete Dijana: A Master of Endurance
Tete Dijana, the men’s race champion, proved his mastery in ultramarathon running with an impressive victory. The 2025 Comrades Marathon marked Dijana’s third career win, a remarkable achievement for the seasoned athlete. He completed the race in 5 hours, 25 minutes, and 28 seconds, holding off a strong challenge from Dutch runner Piet Wiersma.
Despite not breaking his own course record, which was set on a shorter course in 2023, Dijana delivered a phenomenal performance, clocking the fastest average pace ever recorded in the men’s ‘down’ run event. His exceptional speed and endurance earned him a generous prize of R874,000 for winning the race. Additionally, Dijana took home R220,000 as the first South African to cross the finish line. For setting the record pace, he also received a bonus of R500,000. In total, his earnings amounted to an impressive R1.576 million, solidifying his place among the elite in ultramarathon running.
Gerda Steyn: Dominating the Women’s Race
On the women’s side, Gerda Steyn continued her reign as one of the world’s top ultramarathon runners. She claimed her fourth Comrades Marathon title in a dominant display of skill and endurance. Steyn finished the 90km race in 5 hours, 51 minutes, and 19 seconds, winning by nearly five minutes and further solidifying her legacy in the sport.
Like Dijana, Steyn’s victory earned her R874,000 in prize money. However, Steyn’s success didn’t end there. As the first South African woman to cross the finish line, she received an additional R220,000. She also earned a bonus of R50,000 for being the first woman through a hotspot point in the second half of the race. Steyn, who set the fastest average pace in the women’s ‘down’ run event, was awarded a further R500,000 for her remarkable performance. In total, Steyn earned R1.626 million, a testament to her unparalleled talent and consistency in ultramarathon events.
Breaking Records and Overcoming Challenges
While neither Dijana nor Steyn managed to break their own race records—both of which were set on a shorter course in 2023—the 2025 race presented its own unique challenges. The course was more than two kilometers longer this year, and yet both athletes showed their ability to adapt and maintain the fast pace required to secure victory. Their performances highlighted not only their physical capabilities but also their mental fortitude, as they navigated the demanding course with confidence and precision.
A True Test of Endurance and Dedication
Both Tete Dijana and Gerda Steyn’s achievements in the 2025 Comrades Marathon stand as shining examples of dedication, strength, and perseverance. Their hard work and commitment to the sport were not only rewarded with substantial prize money but also recognition as two of the greatest ultramarathon runners in the world today.
Their victories serve as a reminder of the incredible power of sport to inspire and elevate individuals, and their financial rewards underscore the level of excellence required to succeed in one of the toughest races on the planet. As both athletes continue to break barriers and inspire future generations of runners, their legacy in the Comrades Marathon will undoubtedly live on for years to come.
Check also: Tete Dijana Crowned 2025 Comrades Marathon Champion
Tete Dijana and Gerda Steyn’s victories at the 2025 Comrades Marathon are a testament to their unwavering commitment to the sport of ultramarathon running. Their impressive earnings of over R1.5 million each reflect not only their extraordinary athleticism but also their place in the history of the race. These champions exemplify the true spirit of Comrades—pushing limits, defying expectations, and achieving greatness.
