Glenrose Xaba (Boxer) delivered an outstanding performance on Sunday, securing the SPAR Grand Prix title with a commanding win at the Johannesburg SPAR 10km Women’s Challenge. Xaba crossed the finish line in an impressive 32:48, marking her fourth victory in this year’s SPAR Women’s Challenge series.
Tadu Nare (Nedbank), a three-time SPAR Grand Prix champion, claimed second place with a time of 34:00, while her Ethiopian teammate, Diniya Abaraya, followed in third at 34:14. The trio ran together for the first six kilometers before Xaba surged ahead, running solo for the remainder of the race. Xaba’s victory makes her the first South African to claim the SPAR Grand Prix title since international athletes were admitted into the competition in 2019. Xaba last won the title in 2018.
“I am thrilled to have won the SPAR Grand Prix once again,” said Xaba. “I made many sacrifices to achieve this, including not attempting to qualify for the Olympic Games. My coaches, Caster Semenya and Violet Semenya, encouraged me to focus on the bigger picture.”
Xaba acknowledged the challenging course, which included several steep hills, and praised the competitive field. “I knew it would be a fast race today, and the competition has been excellent.”
Nare expressed her satisfaction with her performance throughout the year and lauded Xaba’s achievement. “Glenrose has been a phenomenal athlete from the start, and she’s only gotten stronger. I’m so pleased for her because she’s worked incredibly hard.”
Abaraya, winner of the junior category in the SPAR Grand Prix, reflected on a rewarding and demanding year. “I’ve learned so much from Tadu and Glenrose, who have pushed me to be more competitive. But I know I still have a long way to go.”
Gerda Steyn (Phantane), a multiple ultra-marathon winner who finished sixth, expressed her excitement about the rising standards in women’s running. “I love running the SPAR Women’s Challenge races, and it’s amazing to see how much the competition has improved. In 2018, I finished second in this race with a slower time than today. The inclusion of international athletes has really raised the bar, and I’m excited about the emerging talent.”
Xaba’s coach, double Olympic gold medallist Caster Semenya, praised her dedication and determination. “She’s disciplined, focused, and open to guidance. I expect great things from her in the future.”
Next on Xaba’s agenda is the Cape Town Marathon on October 19, where many expect her to challenge the national record. However, Xaba remains grounded, stating, “I have no expectations for my first marathon. I just plan to enjoy the experience.”
RESULTS: SPAR WOMEN’S 10KM CHALLENGE
Top 10 Open Category:
- Glenrose Xaba (Boxer) – 32:48
- Tadu Nare (Nedbank) – 34:00
- Diniya Abaraya (Nedbank) – 34:14
- Blandina Makatisi (Maxed Elite) – 35:01
- Millicent Nyeberi (Nedbank) – 35:05
- Gerda Steyn (Phantane) – 35:11
- Karabo More (Masai) – 35:20
- Karabo Mailula (Tuks) – 35:33
- Cacisile Sosibo (Boxer) – 36:14
- Karabo Motsoeneng (TUT) – 36:26
Junior Category:
- Diniya Abaraya (Nedbank) – 34:14
- Shanike Jordaan (Nedbank) – 40:07
- Jackie Coetze (Boxer) – 41:34
40-49 Age Group:
- Diana-Lebo Phalula (Boxer) – 37:24
- Lebogang Phalula (Boxer) – 38:31
- Jeannie Henderson (Nedbank) – 39:40
50-59 Age Group:
- Anne Stewart (Atlantic) – 42:20
- Elizabeth Potter (Boxer) – 42:23
- Ingrid Koster (Nedbank) – 44:11
60-69 Age Group:
- Judy Bird (Boxer) – 43:51
- Grace de Oliviera (Maxed Elite) – 46:16
- Karen Brough (Boxer) – 49:58
70 and Over Age Group:
- Nancy Will (Pinelands) – 52:23
- Winnie Koekemoer (Gauteng North Masters) – 59:28
- Margaret Rosuoe (Athloleng Primary) – 1:11:39
