Gerda Steyn Sends Clear Message Ahead of Hollywoodbets Joburg 10km Race

• Gerda Steyn is targeting a stronger finish after placing second in last year's race
• The Hollywoodbets Joburg 10km race will feature thousands of runners at Nasrec on Sunday
• The Comrades Marathon champion has also been preparing for a different endurance challenge

South African distance-running star Gerda Steyn expects a competitive battle when she lines up for the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10km race at Nasrec on Sunday, 18 October 2026. The race starts at 7:30 am, with the seven-time Two Oceans Marathon champion hoping to improve on last year's second-place finish.

The Kenyan defending champion, Fridah Ndinda, will be absent, but Steyn believes the remaining field has enough quality to make the contest difficult.

Speaking to SABC Sport on Friday, 16 October, Steyn said she was not taking anything for granted.

“The 10km race dynamic is very unpredictable and I know that there will be strong competition on Sunday.

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“Yes, the previous winner is not here, but there are many other elite runners, so just to finish on the podium will be an amazing achievement for me,” she said.

Why the 10km race matters to Gerda Steyn

The Hollywood Athletics Club runner is best known for her longer-distance achievements, including the Comrades Marathon and Two Oceans Marathon. However, shorter races have become an important part of her preparation.

Steyn explained that the 10km distance requires a different approach from marathons and ultramarathons.

“It's very exciting for me to line up in yet another 10km race because I always find the 10km race distance so challenging and so different to the marathons and ultra-marathons,” she told SABC Sport.

She added that runners must maintain a faster pace and remain focused throughout the race.

Trail running and preparations for 2027

Steyn has also adjusted her training this year by incorporating trail running. She is preparing for the challenge of a 100km trail race next year, while using shorter road races to sharpen her speed ahead of a demanding 2027 season.

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Sunday's event will also feature thousands of participants, with 12,000 runners reportedly entered. The first prize for the 10km race is R40,000.

Steyn has encouraged participants, particularly first-timers, to trust their preparation and enjoy the experience.

With elite athletes chasing the title and recreational runners taking on the distance, the Nasrec event will test speed, endurance, and race-day focus.

Gerda Steyn's recovery secrets behind her elite running performances

Briefly News also reported on Gerda Steyn's approach to elite performance, highlighting how recovery, sleep and consistency contribute to her success in long-distance running.

Speaking to Dr Michael Mol on Cipla Health Matters, Steyn explained why rest matters when athletes regularly push their bodies to the limit. She also discussed mental toughness and how smiling during difficult races helps her maintain a positive mindset.

Source: Briefly News