Marathon superstar Gerda Steyn qualifies for Tokyo Games in style

Steyn finished the Valencia Marathon in 2 hours, 24 minutes, and 03 seconds, shaving over a minute off her previous South African record set in 2021. The 33-year-old  has qualified for the coveted race in Paris next year after beating the Olympic Games 42.2km marathon qualifying time of 2:26:50.  Steyn expressed her delight at achieving this milestone yet again in an interview with SABC Sport. 

"I'm very pleased with how the results turned out, especially in lowering my previous marathon time and national record. I'm satisfied and now enjoying the recovery after the marathon," said said" 

"The marathon was wonderful, we were fortunate to have perfect weather conditions, and the organisation is truly world-class. I would rate it one of the best marathons in the world to attend," continued Steyn. 

Steyn experienced the pinnacle of her running career in 2023,  achieving record-breaking performance in both the Two Oceans 56km ultra-marathon and 87km Comrades in April and June, respectively, before this extraordinary feat in Spain. 

"It was a really wonderful year for me personally. I was very pleased with the three goals I had for the year: The Two Oceans Ultra-Marathon in the beginning of the year, followed by the Comrades Marathon where both of them I won, as well as [get] new course records. And now finishing off the year with another record in a marathon. 

"I'm feeling grateful that the year turned out the way I planned it. Before planning my 2024, I think it's time for rest and recovery before focusing on what's to come. But no doubt, it'll be another very exciting year to come."