After claiming the opening leg in Cape Town in March, Xaba arrives in Durban in top form, having also won the Absa Run Your City 10km in May.

All eyes will be on her as she looks to defend her Grand Prix series crown, which last year earned her R200,000 and a brand-new car. Xaba goes into the Sunday morning race as the clear favourite, with the starter’s gun set to fire at 7am.

Glenrose Xaba is balancing her participation in both the Run Your City and Spar Grand Prix 10km series and remains confident that she can deliver strong performances in both. With Ethiopia’s Salem Gebre posing the biggest challenge, Xaba says her focus is on her own race.

“I’m not afraid of anyone or anything — I’m just enjoying running and giving my best in both competitions. My goal is to defend my Spar title. Winning the Run Your City race in Cape Town was a great boost, and now I’m looking forward to the Grand Prix,” she told SABC Sport.

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Xaba’s motivation is also deeply personal — her mother recently celebrated her birthday on 15 June, and she hopes to dedicate a victory in Durban on Sunday to her. “Spar is another tough race, but we’re putting in the work. Let’s see what happens,” she added.

Athletics South Africa (ASA) Athletes Commission Chairperson Kesa Molotsane has thrown her support behind Glenrose Xaba to successfully defend her title, as she prepares to run her first official race since taking up her new role. “I believe Xaba has what it takes to retain her title. She’s a hard worker and remains highly motivated,” said Molotsane.

“As for me, I’ll be wearing two hats on the day—competing as an athlete and, after the race, stepping into my role as athletes’ representative.

I plan to continue balancing both responsibilities for the time being. I still enjoy road running and representing my fellow athletes,” she told the national broadcaster."

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