Held annually, often in November, the Bluff Marathon is renowned among runners for its picturesque, yet punishing, coastal route, which serves as a popular qualifier for the prestigious Comrades Marathon. For Wiersma and Broodryk, both known for their incredible performances in ultra-marathons, this 42.2km race offers a strategic test of speed and hill-climbing ability in a full marathon format.

Piet Wiersma: The Flying Dutchman's Durban Debut

Piet Wiersma, the Dutch sensation who made an unforgettable mark in South African ultra-running, is expected to bring his elite speed to the Bluff’s streets. Known for his tactical brilliance and strong finishing kick, Wiersma became a household name after his debut performance in the 2023 Comrades Marathon, where he finished second in a thrilling contest.

While Wiersma's focus is often on the ultra-distance, his participation in the Bluff Marathon demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a sharp marathon time. The Bluff course, known locally for its "four heinous hills" and challenging, undulating route that offers stunning ocean views, will be a significant challenge. The two-lap route, starting and finishing at the Fynnlands Combined Sports Club, requires consistent effort and excellent pacing to conquer its repeated climbs.

Defending his Up Run title Wiersma will be using this race as a key training opportunity to prepare for the hills that await in the 99th edition of the Ultimate Human Race. His aim will be to cover every eventuality so come race day he will defend the title and not finish second. The marathon is an excellent race to prepare with.

Adele Broodryk: Takes on the Hills

Leading the charge for the Nedbank women is South Africa’s own Adele Broodryk. A formidable athlete, Broodryk has rapidly established herself as one of the country's top ultra-distance runners, securing impressive podium finishes in major events like the Comrades Marathon in 2022 and 2023.

For Broodryk, the Bluff Marathon will be a key performance indicator. While she possesses the relentless strength required for ultras, the shorter, faster marathon distance demands a different kind of intensity. Her experience navigating the tough gradients of South African races will be invaluable on the Bluff's notoriously hilly terrain.

Coming back from an injury that saw her miss much of the 2025 season, it seems Broodryk is showing the running community that she is back and ready to tackle the challenge that awaits as she prepares to test herself

The Bluff: A Scenic, Yet Severe, Challenge

The Bluff Marathon is often described by runners as "tough and undulating," making it a great tester for the upcoming Comrades Marathon. The route takes runners past significant landmarks, including the Bluff Lighthouse, and along stretches of Marine Drive, offering beautiful scenery that only partially distracts from the sheer physical effort required.

The race is a vital Comrades qualifier, attracting a deep field of runners eager to secure their spot in the ultimate ultra-marathon. For Wiersma and Broodryk, who are usually competing at the sharp end of the Comrades field, the Bluff Marathon presents an opportunity to test their fitness, secure a solid qualifying time, and—most importantly—contribute to the Nedbank Running Club's continued dominance in South African road running.

As these two elite athletes lace up for the challenge, all eyes will be on the Bluff to see if they can conquer the hills and deliver a memorable performance for the green of the Nedbank Running Club.