Comrades winner Gerda Steyn appointed Toyota ambassador

Toyota SA Motors (TSAM) has announced Gerda Steyn as its new brand ambassador for the next three years. The announcement was made at the 98th Comrades Marathon, which took place on Sunday, where Steyn was crowned the winner in the women’s category.

The qualified quantity surveyor is a four-time Comrades marathon champion and one of the most accomplished ultra-marathon athletes in the world, holding records for the Two Oceans ultra marathon (six times), and Comrades marathon down run and up run.

Steyn’s running career kickstarted at the Comrades marathon in 2015 where she finished in the 56th position. As part of her ambassadorship Steyn will be paired with the Toyota Fortuner SUV.

“Toyota SA Motors is proud to support athletes who embody determination, resilience and a global sporting spirit. To this effect, Toyota’s partnership with Gerda Steyn is a beginning of new and exciting adventures,” said Tasneem Lorgat, GM marketing communications at Toyota SA.

The company says Steyn’s appointment reaffirmed Toyota’s commitment to supporting sports as a tool for nation building and social cohesion — values strongly linked to its historic 21-year support of the Comrades Marathon.

Commenting on her appointment, Steyn said: “To represent Toyota — pioneers and leaders in the motoring industry — is a massive honour. I look forward to this long-term partnership with a name that stands head and shoulders above the rest.”