Gerda Steyn reflects on Totalsports Two Oceans Blue Number Club honour

Featured Photo: Gerda Steyn presented with Blue Number 6067 by Adnaan Mohamed

Gerda Steyn has conquered the iconic Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon six times, chiselling her name into the record books with three course records. Yet among the trophies, titles and thunderous finishes, one achievement resonates at a far more personal cadence: her induction into the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Blue Number Club (BNC).

For an athlete who has made winning look almost routine, the prestigious Blue Number represents something rarer than gold. For Steyn it’s a proud moment of reflection, of loyalty, longevity and an unbroken bond with a single start line that keeps calling her back.

Gerda Steyn on her way to her sixth Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon victory in 2025  by Action Photo

“Gerda is affectionately known by many nicknames – from ‘The Smiling Assassin’ to ‘The Darling of South African Road Running,’ ‘The Queen of SA Running,’ ‘The People’s Champion,’ and ‘Sunshine Lady.’ Each name tells a story of her talent, her dedication, and the joy she brings to the sport,” says Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“But beyond the titles, what truly stands out is the way she has captured the hearts of runners and fans across the country. Her remarkable achievements on the roads are matched only by the inspiration she provides to the running community. The TTOM NPC is incredibly proud to count her as a BNC member.”

To Wade Bromfield, General Manager of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, Steyn is the embodiment of what the Blue Number stands for.

“Gerda embodies the spirit that defines the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon. Her consistency, humility, and record-breaking performances continue to raise the bar for the sport and inspire every runner who lines up on race day.”

For Steyn, the Blue Number is more than a badge, it is a tether to the race’s soul.

“Receiving my Blue Number at the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon was my first ever permanent race number, so it was a huge honour,” she says.

“Not many people know that winning an event three times also qualifies you for a blue number. I would still like to run ten Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathons, but receiving my Blue Number means that I am invested in the race in the same way as those who have completed it ten times or more.”

It is an investment measured not in kilometres, but in commitment.

Smiling Assassin Gerda Steyn by Tobias Ginsberg

“Being part of the BNC reminds me that running is deeply rooted in me and that I am in it for the long term,” Steyn reflects.

“It shows that I have held onto something for many years and didn’t give up when it got tough. No matter life’s circumstances, I’ve continually been drawn back to one start line, which has become a constant – teaching me life lessons and pushing me to improve.”

Even among her six Ultra victories, one memory still runs ahead of the rest.

“If I had to single out one, it would be crossing the finish line in first place for the very first time in 2018. It was an incredible experience and a pivotal moment in my career. It made me believe I could be a winner and showed me that my running could positively impact the community. It was overwhelming, but I remain grateful for that first win.”

While her physical preparation has evolved, Steyn says the biggest transformation has happened between the ears.

“I am still learning and seeking ways to improve, but mentally, I’ve grown from being terrified of the challenge to being confident in myself because of my past experiences. I always remind myself not to get too comfortable; every year is different, and past performances don’t guarantee future results.”

The Hollywood Athletic Club star reserves her greatest admiration for the Blue Number Club members whose achievements stretch far beyond podiums – runners with 25 Half Marathon medals, nearly 50 Ultra finishes, and those still toeing the line well into their seventies and eighties.

“Achievements like these are beyond imagination,” she says.
“They tell a story of decades of running through work, family, and life responsibilities, yet year after year, they return to this one special race. They are the true heroes of the Two Oceans Marathon! BNC members inspire everyone around them, and they should never underestimate the significance of what they have achieved.”

Gerda Steyn in action  at the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon in 2025 photo by Tobias Ginsberg

For runners still chasing their own blue number, Steyn’s message is steady and unwavering.

“Keep working toward your goals, the BNC is a symbol of dedication and commitment to yourself and those who support you. Community has always been a big part of my running journey. Even as a professional, being part of a running community remains meaningful. A blue number represents longevity and the possibility of continuing to run if you take care of yourself.”

And finally, a reminder that the finish line is rarely the end.

“Don’t give up and never doubt your ability to achieve your goal. The BNC has a place for everyone, and the journey is filled with incredible, often life-changing moments.”

Number 6!! 🥳⚡️🏃🏼‍♀️ pic.twitter.com/an7YXAH2PZ

— Gerda Steyn (@gerdarun) April 5, 2025

Explore the remarkable achievements of Gerda Steyn in the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon, as featured in a recent TTOM DigiMag: https://joom.ag/4aEd/p16

EVENT INFORMATION: Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon 2026

HOW TO JOIN THE TTOM BLUE NUMBER CLUB: 

Achieving coveted Blue Number Club (BNC) status at the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (TTOM) is a remarkable feat.

A Blue Number is awarded to any runner who has completed 10 Ultra or Half Marathons, or Trail Runs; or who has earned a gold medal in the Ultra Marathon five times; or who has won the Half Marathon, Ultra Marathon, or any distance in the Trail Run three times.

There is no joining fee and no annual membership fee. Runners with nine medals receive yellow race numbers to signify that they are chasing their 10th finish and, ultimately, entry into the BNC.

Members who are awarded a permanent race number enjoy priority pre-entry, preferential seeding and post-race hospitality, among other benefits in accordance with their status as titans of the race.

Website: www.twooceansmarathon.org.za