Defending champions Gerda Steyn and Tete Dijana will compete in the 99th [1] Comrades Marathon this Sunday [3].

The race represents one of the most competitive ultra-marathons in the world, drawing significant public interest due to a field that blends seasoned former champions with rising stars.

The event will take place along the route from Durban to Pietermaritzburg [2] in South Africa. This specific direction is a hallmark of the race's challenging nature, testing the endurance of athletes across a grueling distance.

Steyn and Dijana enter the competition as the favorites to repeat their success. Steyn is pursuing a fifth title bid, adding further pressure to the competition as she seeks to cement her legacy in the sport [1].

Organizers and spectators said there is a high level of anticipation surrounding this edition. The combination of defending champions and a deep field of challengers makes the 99th [1] iteration a focal point for athletics in the region.

The race is scheduled for Sunday [3], following widespread media coverage and preparation by the athletes. As the event approaches, the focus remains on whether the defending pair can withstand the challenge from a competitive field of runners.

Defending champions Gerda Steyn and Tete Dijana will compete in the 99th Comrades Marathon

The 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon serves as a critical benchmark for ultra-marathon running in South Africa. With Gerda Steyn attempting to secure a fifth victory, the race is not just a test of physical endurance but a pursuit of historical dominance in one of the world's most grueling athletic events.