Glenrose Xaba triumphs in Durban, solidifying lead in SPAR Grand Prix

Defending series champion Glenrose Xaba showcased her elite athleticism and strategic racing skills as she claimed victory in the second leg of the 2025 SPAR Grand Prix, held in Durban. Representing Boxer Athletics Club, Xaba’s commanding performance solidified her position at the forefront of the women’s 10km road running campaign.

In a race that unfolded with a carefully considered pace, Xaba initially opted to conserve her energy, allowing young Ethiopian athletes Diniya Abaraya and Selam Gebre, both of the Nedbank Running Club, to lead the charge. The trio crossed the halfway mark in a brisk 16:04, but it wasn’t long before the reigning champion shifted gears. With determination, Xaba distanced herself from the lead group shortly after the 6km mark, ultimately finishing the race in an impressive 31:54—a feat that saw her run a staggering 14 seconds faster in the latter half of the competition.

“Over the last two weeks, I was racing internationally, and I haven’t had much time to recover, so I’m happy about the time I ran today,” Xaba shared post-race.

“I’m just blessed to win today because it’s the first time I’ve won the Durban leg of this series. I usually finish second or third, or further back in the top 10, so I’m very happy.”

Her personal best on the track—15:10.62 in the 5,000m at a recent event in Paris—only adds to her remarkable competitive stature.

Despite being just 19 years old and competing in her first senior season, Abaraya demonstrated tremendous potential, securing a commendable second place with a time of 32:09. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to race here. The weather conditions were wonderful, and we pushed one another. I’m happy with the result and I want to congratulate Glenrose on her achievement today,” Abaraya expressed with enthusiasm.

Although she finished third in 32:25, she did so while battling a severe headache that forced her to push the limits of her endurance.

 “I am feeling a bit under the weather. I had a severe headache, and I couldn’t control it, so I had to push myself to see how far I could go, and finishing third is a bonus for me. I’m very happy with the result,” she admitted.

The competition proved fierce, with the top five finishers all clocking under 33 minutes. Neheng Khatala of Lesotho claimed fourth place in 32:31, while her Hollywood Athletics Club teammate Tayla Kavanagh completed the top five, just a second behind, finishing in 32:32.

Xaba’s victory not only enhances her status as a leading contender in the Grand Prix series but also captivates renewed interest in women’s road running in South Africa, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the series ahead.