Parliament, Monday, 15 June 2026 - The Presiding Officers of Parliament, National Assembly Speaker, Ms Thoko Didiza, and National Council of Provinces Chairperson, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, extend their heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and participants of the 2026 Comrades Marathon, one of the world's most iconic and enduring ultra-marathon events.
We particularly congratulate South African athletes George Kusche, who claimed victory in the men's race and set a new record in the historic "Up Run", and Gerda Steyn, who secured a remarkable fifth Comrades title while once again breaking her own record. Their extraordinary achievements embody the highest ideals of dedication, perseverance, discipline and excellence, and serve as an inspiration to athletes across South Africa and the world.
The Comrades Marathon occupies a unique place in the global sporting calendar. Its rich history, international stature and ability to unite people from different nations, cultures and backgrounds through a shared pursuit of excellence continue to make it one of South Africa's most treasured sporting events.
As South Africans, we take immense pride in seeing our athletes once again fly the national flag high on a global stage. Their success reflects not only individual brilliance but also the strength of South African sport and the indomitable spirit for which our nation is renowned.
The Presiding Officers further congratulate every participant who took part in this year's race. Participation in the Comrades Marathon is, in itself, an extraordinary achievement. The discipline, sacrifice, resilience and unwavering commitment demonstrated by runners from South Africa and across the world exemplify the very values that make sport such a powerful force for human development, social cohesion and international friendship.
We also wish to acknowledge and congratulate the Members of Parliament, some of whom are also Members of the Executive, who participated in this year's race:
- Dr David Masondo, Deputy Minister of Finance;
- Mr Sihle Zikalala, Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure;
- Mr Alvin Botes, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation; and
- Mr Makashule Gana, Member of the National Assembly and Chairperson of the Section 89 Impeachment Committee.
Their participation and successful completion of this demanding race demonstrate exemplary leadership both within and beyond the chambers of Parliament.
The Presiding Officers further commend the organisers of the Comrades Marathon for once again delivering a world-class international sporting spectacle of this magnitude. We also extend our appreciation to the people, government and institutions of the host province, KwaZulu-Natal, as well as the host municipalities, whose support, hospitality and partnership contributed significantly to the success of the marathon.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
Enquiries: Moloto Mothapo, Parliament Spokesperson
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