The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has expressed deep sorrow at the sudden passing of Cheryl Winn, the 1982 women’s winner, former Chair of the CMA Board, and one of the most devoted servants of South African road running. Winn died on Sunday, 5 October, while pursuing her passion for nature photography during a family holiday in the Drakensberg.
Winn’s connection with the Comrades Marathon began as a runner. Between 1978 and 1984, she completed the iconic race six times, never placing lower than fifth in the women’s category. After finishing fourth in her debut, she went on to secure two runner-up finishes in 1980 and 1981 before claiming the women’s title in 1982.
Her influence extended far beyond the road. While still competing, Winn became actively involved in athletics administration, first at club and provincial level and later nationally, working alongside her late husband, Mick Winn, through the South African Road Running Association (SARRA), which evolved into Athletics South Africa (ASA).
Among her many contributions, Winn is best remembered for her decades of dedicated service to the Comrades Marathon, earning her the affectionate title of “matriarch” of the race. Alongside her husband, a fellow former CMA Chair and Comrades legend, she held numerous administrative roles within the organisation. In 2017, she made history as the only former race winner elected Chair of the CMA Board. Even after stepping down in 2021, Winn continued to serve on key committees, including Finance, Marketing & Membership, Heritage & Traditions, and the CMA Elders Committee.
CMA Chairperson Mqondisi Ngcobo paid tribute, saying: “Cheryl’s passing is a great loss not only to the CMA, but to the whole athletics family. She dedicated her life from 1978 to the service of the sport of athletics, and the Comrades Marathon in particular. Cheryl’s legacy in this 104-year-old ultramarathon is unparalleled, and her passing is a devastating loss to the CMA family. She remains the Comrades Marathon’s matriarch.”
Ngcobo extended condolences on behalf of the entire Comrades community: “On behalf of the CMA Board, staff, race organising committee, our elders, sponsors, partners and participants, we pass our deepest condolences to the Winn family, and wish you strength as you deal with this tragic loss. May her beautiful soul rest in peace.”
Cheryl Winn’s enduring legacy is woven into the very fabric of the Comrades Marathon. Her leadership, passion and lifelong dedication to the sport leave behind an indelible mark on South African athletics.
