Tayla Kavanagh keeps feet on the ground ahead of Cape Town showdown

The Hollywood Athletics runner has been improving steadily in 2026, setting personal bests in the 3 000m, 5 000m and 10km, while claiming gold in the 5 000m at the ASA Track and Field Championships at Coetzenburg Stadium in Stellenbosch last week.

But despite her success, Kavanagh is not getting carried away.

"I’m looking forward to running the Cape Town 10km again. I enjoyed the race last year. This will be only my second 10km this season, so I just want a solid run and see where I finish," said Kavanagh.

READ: Kavanagh celebrates near miss in 5000m national record

The KwaZulu-Natal runner, who turns 24 just before race day, says returning to track racing has helped improve her speed.

"It’s been a really good decision. I didn’t have a track background, but it’s helping me get faster, and that is improving my road running,” she explained.

"I enjoyed the track season, but the road is where my passion is. I’m excited to be back racing the 10km."

Kavanagh finished fifth in this race last year in 33:01, and believes that race helped her improve.

"That race in Cape Town last year was special. It’s where things started coming together for me. But I don’t have big expectations.

"I’m just enjoying the process. That’s when I run my best – when I give everything and enjoy the race."