Durban, South Africa – South Africa’s Tete Dijana cemented his legacy as one of the greatest Comrades Marathon runners of all time, securing his third consecutive victory in the grueling 89.98-kilometer ultramarathon. The Nedbank Running Club athlete crossed the finish line at People’s Park in Durban in an unofficial time of 5 hours, 25 minutes, and 28 seconds, narrowly holding off Dutch rival Piet Wiersma in a thrilling sprint finish.
A Triumphant Hat-Trick
Dijana, the reigning down-run record holder, added another title to his 2022 and 2023 wins, becoming only the seventh man in Comrades history to achieve a hat-trick. Though he fell short of his 2023 record by 11 and a half minutes, the Mahikeng-born runner showcased his tactical brilliance, surging ahead in the final 16 kilometers and fending off a fierce challenge from Wiersma, who finished just five seconds behind. Russia’s Nikolai Volkov claimed third place.
The race was a dramatic turnaround for Dijana, who failed to crack the top 10 in 2024 due to cramping. “This win means everything,” Dijana said after the race. “I wanted to prove that I could come back stronger.”
Electric Atmosphere at People’s Park
For the first time, the race concluded at People’s Park instead of Moses Mabhida Stadium, creating a vibrant, intimate finish. Thousands of spectators erupted as Dijana entered the final stretch, chanting his name while Wiersma desperately closed the gap.
The scene was described the scene as “unforgettable.” “The crowd carried him home,” she said. “This wasn’t just a race—it was a celebration of resilience and national pride.”
Wiersma’s Valiant Effort
Wiersma, the 2024 champion, nearly snatched victory in the final meters but fell agonizingly short, mirroring his 2023 second-place finish. “I gave everything,” the Dutchman said. “Tete was just too strong today.”
A Race of Community and Inspiration
Beyond the elite competition, the 98th Comrades Marathon highlighted the event’s spirit of perseverance, with 22,000 participants tackling the punishing course. Young fans cheered on their heroes, including one emotional supporter who yelled, “I’m going to try this one day!”
As Dijana lifted the trophy, the crowd roared to the sound of “Chariots of Fire,” a Comrades tradition. For South Africa, his victory was more than a sporting achievement—it was a moment of unity and triumph.
Final Results (Top 3):
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Tete Dijana (RSA) – 5:25:28
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Piet Wiersma (NED) – 5:25:33
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Nikolai Volkov (RUS) – (Time TBD)
With this win, Dijana joins the pantheon of Comrades legends—and South Africa celebrates a new chapter in its rich marathon history.
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