Glenrose Xaba gears up to defend Grand Prix crown

By Charles Baloyi
26th March 2026

South Africa’s multiple record holder Glenrose Xaba is preparing to defend her Spar Women’s 10km Grand Prix title as the much-anticipated series gets underway this weekend.

Xaba currently shares three series titles with Ethiopia’s Tadu Nare, alongside South African stars Irvette van Zyl and René Kalmer, who has since retired.

Victory in 2026 would see Xaba stand alone as the most successful runner in the history of the series.

The competition officially kicks off at Green Point Stadium on Sunday, with a sold-out field of 18 000 women set to take to the streets.

The five-leg series will travel through Cape Town, Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Tshwane and Johannesburg, with the overall winner pocketing over R200 000 in prize money. Each race winner earns R30 000, with additional bonus points on offer.

The 31-year-old, who recently secured a two-year contract extension with Boxer Running Club, says her goal is clear — to defend her crown and inspire the next generation.

However, she admits the challenge will be anything but straightforward due to a packed international calendar.

“I would love to defend my title and inspire the youngsters, but it will not be easy,” said Xaba. “I’m not sure if I will be able to run all five races.

I have the World Championships half-marathon in September, a big marathon later in the year, as well as national competitions and the Commonwealth Games. It’s a demanding schedule.”

Despite the challenges, Xaba remains deeply connected to the series that helped launch her career.

“I love the Spar Women’s 10km series because it’s where I made my name. I always enjoy competing in it every year. The plan is to win another title, but it won’t be easy,” she added.

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As the national 10km record holder sets her sights on another triumph, she is bracing for stiff competition from talents such as Taylor Kavanagh of Hollywood Athletics Club, as well as a strong Ethiopian contingent representing Nedbank Running Club.

The opening race in Cape Town is expected to set the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested series.

“My coach and manager will guide me on how to approach the season, and we’ll take it step by step. But we will definitely give it our best shot in the Grand Prix series,” Xaba concluded.