Gerda Steyn’s Dominance Faces a Divine Challenge at the 2026 Two Oceans Ultra Marathon
For the seventh consecutive year, Gerda Steyn is widely anticipated to clinch victory in the 56km ultra marathon at the 2026 TotalSports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD. Her remarkable streak has solidified her status as the overwhelming favorite in what many hail as “The World’s Most Beautiful Marathon.”
A New Contender with a Faith-Fueled Vision
However, this year’s race features a compelling challenger: Deanne Laubscher, a member of the Nedbank Running Club, who stunned the running community by finishing 10th last year. Sitting alongside Steyn at the recent pre-race media event, Laubscher expressed deep respect for the reigning champion, affectionately known as “The Smiling Assassin.” Yet, beneath her admiration lies a steadfast conviction that Steyn’s winning streak is not invincible.
Laubscher’s confidence is rooted in her extraordinary journey, including an unexpected gold medal finish in the 2025 race-a competition she almost didn’t participate in due to physical setbacks. Her story embodies the spirit of Isaiah 40:31: “those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”
Faith as the Foundation of Performance
In a candid conversation away from the spotlight, Laubscher shared how her faith has transformed both her life and athletic career. “I’m in far better condition than last year,” she said, “and if that was what God did for me then, I can only imagine what He has planned now. My goals are no longer small-I’m reaching for what seems impossible.”
Her belief in miracles is not abstract. Raised in church but without a personal connection to God, Laubscher’s faith deepened after enduring profound personal losses, including the death of her father from brain cancer. A pivotal moment came during a mission trip to Zimbabwe, where she prayed for a blind woman who then regained her sight-an experience that reshaped her worldview and fueled her determination.
From Disappointment to Divine Purpose
Laubscher’s running career has mirrored her spiritual journey. Two years ago, she finished 11th at the Comrades Marathon, a position she initially viewed as a failure, missing the gold medal by mere seconds. “I felt devastated and cried every time I ran,” she recalled. However, a stranger’s perspective helped her reframe her mindset: “If I finished 11th, my world would be made.”
This shift led her to surrender control to her faith. “When I rely on myself, fear and anxiety take over. But when I trust God, I have no expectations and no fear. He’s the one who decides the outcome, and that’s a relief.”
Overcoming Physical Challenges Through Prayer
Before last year’s race, Laubscher battled persistent injuries to her glutes, hamstring, and knee-issues that medical professionals said were untreatable. Instead of giving up, she chose prayer over medication. “I started the race uncertain, but by the time I reached Constantia Nek, I was in 10th place. I held on, knowing it was God’s strength that carried me through.”
Looking Ahead: A Race for Miracles
As the 2026 Two Oceans Marathon approaches, Laubscher is not just competing for a medal-she is pursuing a miracle. While South African running circles may doubt the possibility of unseating Steyn, Laubscher’s faith and resilience position her as a formidable contender ready to challenge the status quo.
With the race set to unfold this Saturday, all eyes will be on these two extraordinary athletes-one a proven champion, the other a testament to hope and divine intervention.
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