Kirsty Roux was overwhelmed with gratitude after achieving one of the most coveted milestones in South African road running, completing her 10th Comrades Marathon on June 14 to earn her green number.

The accomplishment came after conquering the gruelling 85.77km up-run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg in 10:20:24 for a fifth bronze medal, joining an exclusive club reserved for athletes who have completed the iconic ultramarathon 10 times.

Although the achievement is one many runners spend years chasing, Roux admitted it still feels surreal.

“The biggest feeling I experienced was that of gratitude,” she said.

“I was aware all day – and at every Comrades – of the absolute privilege it is to run this race. I’m incredibly grateful I was able to take on the challenge for my team.”

The milestone was made even more memorable by the support she received along the route.

“Many people took the trouble to congratulate me because I was going for number 10. It was an incredibly special day and a privilege to be out there on the road.”

Crossing the finish line and securing her place in the Green Number Club was an emotional moment for Roux, who described the achievement as something that has not fully sunk in.

“It feels quite surreal to have been able to join this club filled with legends,” she said. “I’m happy and excited about what’s next. I feel like there’s so much more to come.”

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Like every Comrades journey, the race came with its challenges.

Roux battled tight calves in the opening kilometres before settling into a rhythm and relying on mental strategies developed through years of ultramarathon running.

“Comrades is one of the only races where the distance counts down. Every time I reached a new 10km marker, I celebrated because it felt like another step closer,” she explained.

Despite experiencing a difficult patch during the race, Roux remained positive and focused on breaking the daunting distance into manageable sections.

With her green number secured, she is already looking ahead.

While not committing to chasing a double green number, she plans to continue running as long as she enjoys the journey, with trail races on her radar as well.

“I certainly want to line up for the 100th Comrades next year. To be there for the 100th running and to run it with my green number will be incredibly special.”

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