Tete Morena Dijana won the 98th Comrades Marathon on 8 June 2025. He ran from Pietermaritzburg to Durban and finished with a time of 5 hours, 25 minutes, and 28 seconds. He beat 2024 winner Piet Wiersma from the Netherlands by just five seconds. It was one of the closest and most exciting finishes in the race’s history.
A Historic Victory In Durban For South Africa’s Ultramarathon Icon
Dijana’s win was very special. He had already won in 2022 and 2023, but in 2024 he finished in 14th place. This year, he made a strong comeback. He ran smart and fast, especially after Cowies Hill, and won his third title. All his wins were in the “down run” direction. He is now one of the greatest runners in this race.
Dijana said after the race, “This win means a lot. I wanted to show I’m still the best and I did.”
A Tactical Masterclass
“Dijana’s” Return To Form
“Dijana” planned his race carefully. After losing in 2024, He trained hard And stayed focused. He knew the right time to run faster And Saved energy for the end. When It mattered most. He stayed strong And crossed The line first. His smart racing helped him make A powerful return to the top.
A Nail-Biting Finish
Dijana V/s. Wiersma
In the last 10 kilometers, Wiersma pushed hard and tried to pass “Dijana”. The two runners battled all the way to the end. In the final stretch Into Durban, Wiersma made one last effort, But “Dijana” stayed in Front. He showed great control and mental strength to win by five seconds.
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Key Race Highlights And Tactical Shifts
Two-Wave Elite Start Makes Debut
For the first time, the race had a two-wave start. Elite runners started 15 minutes earlier to avoid traffic on narrow roads. This made things safer and smoother for top athletes.
Early Leader Falters: Khonkhobe’s Gambit
South African runner Onalenna Khonkhobe started the race very fast. He had an 8-minute lead at the halfway point. But later, he got cramps near Fields Hill and had to slow down. He could not keep the lead.
The Cowies Hill Decider
The race changed near Cowies Hill. That’s when Dijana, Wiersma, and Edward Mothibi took the lead. But Mothibi couldn’t keep up, and it became a battle between Dijana and Wiersma. Their race to the finish line excited all the fans.
Athlete Profile: The Rise of Tete Morena Dijana
Tete Morena Dijana was born on 16 May 1988 in Mahikeng, North West Province. He ran his first Comrades in 2019 and finished 50th. In 2022, He quit his job as a security guard And became a full Time Athlete.
His Comrades Titles
- 2022 – 5:30:38
- 2023 – 5:13:58 (down run record)
- 2025 – 5:25:28
“Dijana’s” Story Shows hard work and never giving up. He went From working long Night shifts to becoming A Champion. His journey inspires runners everywhere.
Global Participation And Logistical Marvel
This year, more than 22,000 runners from over 80 countries joined the Comrades Marathon. It was one of the most international races ever.
Key race facts:
- 98th Comrades Marathon / 49th Down Run
- Route: 89.98 km
- Finish: Near People’s Park, Moses Mabhida Stadium
- Over 5,000 volunteers
Supplies during the race:
- 2.2 million water sachets
- 600,000 sports drinks
- 40,000 litres of soft drink
- Bananas and salted potatoes for energy
The support was excellent, and people cheered loudly. It was called “world-class,” and once again proved why this race is known as the “Ultimate Human Race.”
Conclusion
Dijana’s Legacy Etched in Comrades History
With his third down-run victory, Tete Dijana is now one of the greats in Comrades history. His win was not just about running. It showed smart thinking, heart, and a strong Will. As one of South Africa’s best ultra runners, his story Matches the Comrades spirit: Strong, brave, And Unforgettable.
Whether You’re A Runner, A fan, Or someone with a dream, The “2025 Comrades Marathon” Reminded everyone. This is more Than a race. It’s a symbol of human Strength And Unity.