27 September 2024 – This week, Kia South Africa proudly honored the outstanding achievements of Onalenna Khonkobe and Gerda Steyn, the respective male and female winners of this year’s Two Oceans ultra-marathon. Both champions received their Kia vehicles, which they will enjoy for the next 12 months. The winners were announced during this year’s Two Oceans Marathon in April, and the prize presentations commenced this month following the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) confirming the race results as drug-free.
“The spectacle that the Two Oceans Marathon creates each year aligns perfectly with our brand slogan, ‘Movement that inspires,’” remarked Paul Turnbull, CEO of Kia South Africa. “It’s fitting that the world’s most beautiful marathon has been supported by a car brand renowned for its design excellence over the past two years. We celebrate the success of Onalenna and Gerda in this year’s race and applaud their indomitable spirit that transcends all mental and physical limits. With our leading unlimited kilometre warranty, we’re confident that the Kia vehicles they drive will perfectly complement their lifestyles and achievements.”
From Taung to Triumph
A total of 12,229 runners took to the starting line of the 2024 Two Oceans ultra-marathon, but it was 28-year-old Onalenna Khonkobe from Sekhing village, near Taung in the North West Province, who claimed the ultimate glory, finishing with an impressive time of 3:09:30. As a proud member of the Nedbank Running Club, Khonkobe is coached by Pio Mpolokeng and managed by Nick Bester. His victory marks a significant milestone, as he becomes the first South African to win the men’s race since 2019, following last year’s winner, Givemore Mudzinganyama, who secured third place this year behind Lloyd Bosman.
Khonkobe’s journey into running began in primary school, where he demonstrated unwavering dedication to his craft. His training regimen is nothing short of rigorous, comprising two daily sessions, save for Sundays. He also participated in this year’s Comrades Marathon as a pacesetter for his team, showcasing his versatility and strategic approach to racing. Describing his Comrades experience to the Taung Daily News, Khonkobe humorously noted, “I didn’t train for the race; I just planned to bolt like a rabbit being chased by a lion.” His strategy paid off handsomely, as he reached the halfway mark in record-breaking time, enabling his teammates to clinch the top three spots.
“I am happy and truly blessed to have the gift of running,” Khonkobe expressed upon receiving the keys to his brand-new Kia Seltos 1.5 CRDi EX Plus. “I thank Kia South Africa for this prize, and also Nick Bester and the team at the Nedbank Running Club. I will be doing my best to defend my win next year!”
The Reigning Queen of Long-Distance Running
Gerda Steyn has solidified her status as South Africa’s long-distance running queen by securing her fifth consecutive Two Oceans Marathon victory this year. She completed the grueling 56km route in an astonishing time of 3:26:54, shattering her own 2023 record of 3:29:06 and becoming the first athlete to achieve such a remarkable feat. Steyn also triumphed in the 2024 Comrades Marathon for the second consecutive year, finishing in 5:49:46.
Growing up on a farm near Bothaville in the Free State, Steyn’s journey into the world of running began after she moved to Dubai in 2014. Seeking social connections, she joined a local running club, which turned out to be a life-changing decision, igniting her passion and talent for the sport. Her competitive spirit blossomed after completing the 2015 Dubai Marathon, and she made her Comrades Marathon debut that same year, finishing in an impressive 56th place. It was there that she met Nick Bester, the 1991 Comrades winner, who became her coach.
Now based in Dubai with her husband, Duncan Ross, who works as a pilot, Steyn returns to South Africa as often as possible. Kia South Africa generously provides her with a vehicle whenever she is in the country, further solidifying the partnership between the athlete and the brand.
“I am now into my second year with Kia after crossing the finish line in first place again this year, and I’m extremely appreciative of their support,” Steyn commented. “I have been thoroughly impressed by the quality and the extensive features of the vehicles. I have had the pleasure of driving both the Sportage and Seltos, but beyond that, I have come to know the people behind the brand, who are as passionate about Kia as I am about my running! I am truly grateful to have such a wonderful brand supporting me every step of the way. I always feel confident driving a Kia, and now I have an added incentive to ensure I perform at my best on race day.”
As Kia South Africa celebrates the remarkable achievements of these two exceptional athletes, the brand continues to inspire a culture of movement, motivation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
