South African ultra-runner Cornel Metcalfe has reached a remarkable milestone by completing her 50th 100-mile race at the 2024 Washie 100, the very event where her ultra-distance journey began in 2017.

Cornel finished as the first woman and ninth overall, crossing the line in 18:52:29—just 42 seconds slower than her debut time eight years ago. This marks her sixth Washie finish, all of which have ended on the podium, including three wins.

With 50 finishes to her name, including 25 wins and 40 podiums, Cornel now holds the record as the South African woman with the most 100-miler finishes. She ranks third overall behind legendary ultra-runners Tobie Reyneke and Eric Frank Wright.

Her 50th finish was more than just a race—it was a full-circle celebration of an extraordinary journey in ultra-distance running.