Ten-time Champion Ernst van Dyk to race Boston one final time
In the depths of Boston Marathon history, from 1897 through the present, no champion has amassed the respect, accolades, and trophy collection quite like Ernst van Dyk. The South African superstar has become a favorite among fans and fellow competitors for his competitiveness and charm, racing more than 575 miles on the marathon course.
For more than two decades, no matter the weather or year, two things have been certain on Patriots' Day: Ernst van Dyk would show up, and Ernst van Dyk would fight like hell to finish first.
Van Dyk has finished Boston 22 times since making his Boston Marathon debut in 1999, placing on the podium in 18 of those races. He's won ten titles, finished runner-up five times, and was third place three times – most recently in 2021 (1:28:43).
In addition to his mile-wide smile and positive demeanor, Ernst has been an outspoken leader of the wheelchair division, providing race organizers, athletes, and media valuable feedback that has helped professionalize and propel the sport forward. From calling for enhanced broadcast coverage to greater prize money and opportunities, he's been a champion well beyond the roads.
Entering 2023, Ernst owns nine of the fastest 50 wheelchair times in Boston Marathon history, a testament to his knack for attacking the course. For one final time, he'll buckle his helmet in Hopkinton, power up and down the hills, and cross the finish stripe in Boston.
Thank you for the memories, Ernst!
As a young racer, I was always a little in awe of Ernst. The first couple times I raced against him in Boston, the starting line was the last time I saw him – he was such an amazing downhill racer that he'd get away from the pack right from the get-go!
— DANIEL ROMANCHUK, DEFENDING BOSTON MARATHON CHAMPION
He's made a difference Ernst Fun Facts: Age: 50 From: Paarl, South Africa 2 minutes, 59 seconds: Pace for his fastest Boston (2017, 1:18:04) 576.4 miles: Total miles covered in Boston not only as an elite champion, but also as an important voice for Paralympic athletes worldwide. Retiring at age 50, he's among the best that will ever hightail it from Hopkinton to Boston!
— JEAN DRISCOLL, 7-TIME BOSTON MARATHON WOMEN'S WHEELCHAIR CHAMPION
Ernst Fun Facts:
- Age: 50
- From: Paarl, South Africa
- 2 minutes, 59 seconds: Pace for his fastest Boston (2017, 1:18:04)
- 576.4 miles: Total miles covered in Boston
