South African running star Gerda Steyn has expressed disappointment over the outstanding R90,000 prize money she earned after finishing third at the 2025 Soweto Marathon, saying she has almost lost hope of ever receiving the payment.

According to SABC Sport, nearly a year has passed since the race, but Steyn and other athletes are reportedly still waiting for their prize money, with no clear communication from the organisers about when the payments will be made.

The two-time Olympian made her debut at the People’s Race on 29 November 2025. Despite concerns surrounding the event at the time, she decided to participate in support of the local marathon.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Steyn said the prolonged silence had left athletes frustrated and disappointed.

“You are correct, it's almost to the date, one year, and there's been absolutely no communication about the payments or absolutely no payments done,” she said.

Steyn explained that she had been particularly excited about competing in a marathon on home soil after the cancellation of the Cape Town Marathon. She decided to support the Soweto Marathon despite being aware of the challenges facing the event.

However, the lack of progress in resolving the outstanding payments has left her questioning whether the organisers will fulfil their commitments to the athletes.

Steyn has raised concerns about the management of the Soweto Marathon, questioning whether those responsible can be relied upon to honour their financial obligations to participating athletes.

The runner indicated that there had previously been suggestions that outside parties or individuals could intervene to help resolve the situation. However, she said there had been no meaningful developments regarding the outstanding prize money.

For Steyn, the matter extends beyond the R90,000 she is owed. She believes the situation has damaged the reputation of an event that holds an important place in South Africa's athletics calendar.

The Soweto Marathon has traditionally brought together runners and supporters from across the country, creating opportunities for athletes to compete while celebrating the country's running culture.

Steyn warned that the failure to pay athletes could undermine confidence in the event and discourage runners from supporting it in the future.

She also expressed disappointment that athletes who had chosen to participate and support the race had been left waiting for answers.

Steyn's experience has highlighted the importance of race organisers meeting their financial commitments and communicating transparently with competitors who dedicate their time and effort to participating in sporting events.

Gerda Steyn Loses Hope of Receiving R90,000 Soweto Marathon Prize Money - Briefly.co.za