ASA and Gerda Steyn back Glenrose Xaba to shine in Valencia Marathon debut

Xaba will line up alongside more than 35 000 runners on the streets of the Spanish city as she targets another record-breaking performance.

The 29-year-old stunned the nation last year when she smashed both the course and national record at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, clocking 2:22:22 to eclipse Steyn’s South African mark.

Now preparing for only the second marathon of her career, Xaba told SABC Sport that she is determined to chase another national record in Valencia.

Skosana, who was re-elected as ASA Road Running Chair in May, sent his well wishes to Xaba ahead of the biggest race of her career.

“Glenrose is a talented young lady. After winning the Spar Women’s 10km Grand Prix title her confidence is high.

"I believe she is ready for her first international marathon and in the best possible shape to break her own national record,” said Skosana.

READ: Gerda Steyn reflects on remarkable year as she targets 2026 goals

“She will represent the country with pride. I’d like to thank her coaches Caster and Violet Semenya, as well as her management team, and wish them the best of luck.”

Skosana added that Xaba has the potential to become a major medal contender for Team South Africa.

“We want to see her running at the 2028 Olympic Games in the USA. She can bring home a medal. We must continue supporting her — she is a special talent,” he said.

The Athletic Gauteng North Road Running Chair also stressed the importance of developing more female road runners to compete globally.

“We have depth in men’s road running, but we still need more women in the 21km, marathon, and ultra distances.

ASA must continue to identify and support them,” Skosana added.

Meanwhile, Steyn — who has raced Valencia three times and previously held the national record before Xaba’s Cape Town breakthrough — said she will be glued to her television to cheer Xaba on.

“I know that course well — it’s flat, it’s fast, and perfect for big performances,” said Steyn.

“I can’t wait to see what Glenrose produces.

She might surprise herself with how fast she can run there. My message to her is to trust her strength and give it everything. I’m sure we’ll see something special on Sunday.”