Tete Dijana, an employee of Mi7, an external security service provider to the NWU at the Mahikeng Campus, won the men’s division in a record time of 5:14.01. 

Adele Broodryk, who is a senior lecturer at the School for Human Movement Sciences at NWU, came second in 5:56.26. Speaking to OFM News, Broodryk said she came third last year in her debut as a participant in a marathon and she is hoping to win next year.

“I’ve had my third position, second position, so all that’s left is a first position. So I'm holding thumbs that all the preparations will go according to plan for next year and then I will come back hopefully for the win,” she says.

Gerda Steyn, winner of the women's Comrades Marathon. PHOTO: UFS

Broodryk was beaten by Gerda Steyn, who broke Frith van der Merwe's 34-year-old down-run record after crossing the finish line at Kingsmead in a time of 5:44:54. Steyn was named the Chancellor’s Distinguished Alumnus of the Year at the event held on the Bloemfontein Campus on 20 May 2023. This is the highest honour bestowed upon an alumnus and celebrates someone who inspires fellow alumni, current students, and the community. At the time of the event, she was training in France in preparation for the Comrades Marathon. During the ceremony, Steyn mentioned in a video acceptance speech that despite studying to become a quantity surveyor, working for a few years, and then leaving her job to become a professional athlete as a marathon runner, she continues to utilise the skills she acquired at the UFS.

The NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Prof. Bismark Tyobeka, congratulated Dijana and Broodryk for delivering a stellar performance.

Tyobeka was unequivocal in his praise for the two athletes. Tyobeka took time also to appreciate athletes from NWU who took part in the 2023 Comrades Marathon and commended their character and bravery.

North West Provincial Legislature Portfolio Committee on Education, Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation Chairperson, Paul Sebegoe, congratulated Dijana for winning the Comrades Marathon for the second year.

“We are very happy with the record-breaking performance from a runner who comes from humble beginnings and has been running for many years now. He has become a role model to fellow athletes and young aspiring long-distance runners from the province.” 

Sebegoe also complimented Broodryk for coming second in the women’s marathon.

OFM News