Gerda Steyn joins Hollywood Athletics Club

Three-time Comrades Marathon champion and five-time Two Oceans Marathon winner, Gerda Steyn, has joined the Hollywood Athletics Club (HAC).

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The announcement was made during a special event held at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, marking her introduction to The Purple Team.

Regarded as South Africa’s golden girl, a standout figure in long-distance running whose remarkable achievements have captured the hearts of her fellow countrymen, Steyn’s warm and radiant smile captivates South Africans at large.

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Steyn expressed her excitement at joining the HAC.

“When I think of the Purple brand, I immediately associate it with the positive energy at their races and their ability to inspire excitement in runners. I’m eager to be a part of that vibrant atmosphere. The Hollywood Athletics Club’s passion for the sport is truly evident in everything they do, and it’s been exciting to watch the club grow stronger year after year. Joining this movement is something I’m really looking forward to, and I also aim to inspire more runners to embrace the sport and become part of the Purple spirit.”

Bold move

This marks a bold move by the Hollywood Athletics Club as they gear up for the upcoming season.

Steyn joins an impressive elite line-up, including Irvette van Zyl and Loveness Madziva, creating a formidable team for the Two Oceans Marathon in April.

These three athletes claimed the top three positions in last year’s race, showcasing their competitive prowess and potential for the upcoming season.

The addition of Gerda Steyn signals the club’s commitment to excellence and its ambition to compete at the highest level nationally.

With remarkable performances last season, the Hollywood Athletics Club has established itself as a force on the road.

The current roster also includes Soweto Marathon champion Neheng Khatala and IAU 50km World Champion, Carla Molinaro.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome an athlete of Gerda’s exceptional calibre to our team,” said Hollywood Athletics Club Manager, Brett Goodwin.

“Her wealth of experience and remarkable talent will undoubtedly inspire and elevate everyone fortunate enough to train and compete alongside her. Hollywoodbets, through the HAC, is beyond excited to have the people’s champion join our proudly South African brand – one that not only champions the sport of running but also fosters the joy of participating in it.”

Steyn’s debut in the Purple Team colours will take place at the 30km Bay to Bay race in Cape Town this weekend.

Thereafter she will compete in the Two Oceans Marathon and, the Comrades Marathon, where she has consistently delivered record-breaking performances over the years.

This year’s Two Oceans Marathon is scheduled for Saturday, 5 April, while the 2025 Comrades Marathon will take place on Sunday, 8 June.

Are you a Gerda Steyn fan? If so, what makes her so special?

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