Glenrose Xaba targets third Boxer Super Run 5km title

Fresh from making history by claiming her fourth Spar Women’s 10km Grand Prix series title, Xaba will head into the race full of confidence as she targets another victory and the R20 000 first-place prize.

The Boxer Running Club star has won the race twice, claiming victory in the inaugural Durban edition in 2023 in 16:03 before returning in 2025 to win in an improved time of 15:27. She missed the 2024 edition because of a clash with a marathon.

This time, the 31-year-old is ready to return to the streets of Durban, with no scheduling conflicts standing in her way. Coached by Caster and Violet Semenya in Tshwane, Xaba will be hoping to add another trophy to her growing collection.

Known as the Super Charger in road running circles, Xaba says the event holds a special place in her heart, and she is excited about the prospect of winning it for a third time.

“Winning the inaugural Durban race in 2023 and then coming back in 2025 and winning again made me appreciate the event even more,” Xaba told SABC Sport.

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The multiple national record holder believes her experience as a two-time winner will give her confidence, but she knows she will have to work hard to beat her rivals.

“Returning as a two-time champion gives me confidence, but it also gives me motivation to keep working hard. Every race is different, and you cannot rely on what you achieved before. I’m looking forward to creating another special memory in Durban,” she said.

Having raced on the course before, Xaba knows what to expect and will be looking to use that knowledge to her advantage.

However, she is not taking anything for granted as she prepares to face a competitive field.

“I know what the course demands, so I can use that knowledge to race intelligently and be patient when necessary. Of course, I would love to fight for another victory.

“A third title would mean a lot to me, but my main focus will be on executing the plan my coach and I have prepared and giving my best on the day,” she added.

While she is eager to secure another win, Xaba is not putting too much pressure on herself to run a fast time. Instead, she wants to get her race strategy right and finish strongly.

“I don’t want to become too focused on the clock. The key will be getting the pacing right, staying relaxed, responding to the competition and having enough strength for the final kilometre. If I execute the race well, the time should take care of itself,” she said.