Bruce Fordyce is widely regarded as the greatest ultra-marathon runner the world has ever seen. A compelling and humorous motivational speaker, Bruce uses his self-deprecating wit and deep well of personal experience to inspire audiences with stories of perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence, always tempered by integrity and sportsmanship.

As CEO of parkrun South Africa, Assistant Manager of the Nedbank Running Clubs, and CEO of Nedbank Running Club Central Gauteng, Bruce remains deeply embedded in the sport he loves. He is also a running coach, author, and sponsored athlete. Off the track, Bruce presents regularly to corporates, schools, charities, and sporting organisations, where his passion for running and personal growth resonates with audiences of all ages.

Bruce is an Ambassador for The Sports Trust, a role that reflects his ongoing commitment to giving back to the South African sporting community.

He made his debut in the Comrades Marathon in 1977, going on to win the race a record nine times, eight of them consecutively. His 1986 time of 5:24 for the up run stood unbroken for 21 years. He was the first to break the 5½-hour barrier for the up run and remains the only athlete to have done so three times.

Bruce set the 50-mile world record in 1983 during the London to Brighton Marathon, a record that still stands. He also holds the U.S. 50-mile ‘All Comers’ record.

Awards and Honours include:

• Honorary Doctorate, University of the Witwatersrand (2007)

• Nelson Mandela State President’s Gold Award for Sport (1997)

• Transvaal Athlete of the Year (1986)

• Wits Sportswriters’ Sportsman of the Year (1982 & 1983)

• SA Ultra Marathoner of the Year (1981–1990)

• Sportsman of the Year (1979–1983)