Glenrose Xaba makes history with Spar Grand Prix clean sweep

The Boxer Running Club star became the first South African athlete to win all five legs of the prestigious 10km series.

Her final victory came in Johannesburg on Sunday, where she crossed the finish line in 33:07 at Marks Park Sports Complex.

Speaking to SABC Sport after her victory, Xaba says she is proud to have completed the perfect series.

“I’m happy to have won all five races. The course was challenging, but I managed to complete the sweep,” said Xaba.

“I focused on my splits and finished strong. Irvette helped me push the pace early on.

“I love running the Spar races, and yes, I’ll be back next year.The series helps me grow as an athlete and keeps me running fast times.”

The 30-year-old also secured R30 000 for the race win, R300 000 for the overall title, and a brand-new Hyundai as part of her rewards.

Ethiopia’s Diniya Abraya finished second in 33:42, while former champion Irvette van Zyl crossed the line in third place in 34:35.

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Xaba’s clean sweep also saw her surpass Rene Kalmer’s long-standing record of four consecutive victories.

She rated her season highly but admitted there is still room for improvement.

“I’d say it’s an eight out of ten,” she said. “I still have big goals ahead.”

The national 10km record holder now turns her attention to international races later this year, with a half-marathon in Lisbon before heading to the Valencia Marathon on 7 December.

She aims to improve on her national marathon record of 2:22:22 and break 2:20:00

“My goal is to run under 2:20 in Valencia. If the weather is good, I can run a fast time.”