Christine Njoki targets Durban 10km title defence and world record bonus

After clocking a sub-31-minute victory in last year’s race, Njoki is back with a bold goal – to break the women’s 10km world record of 29:37, which would earn her the massive carrot dangled before her.

The 26-year-old boasts a personal best of 30:36 and admits the world record incentive has given her an extra push in training.

"The bonus is a huge motivation, and every athlete lining up on Sunday will aim to challenge the world record," she told SABC Sport. 

"It’s a powerful message that women are recognised and appreciated in society, and we thank the sponsors for that. My goal is to better my time and go for the record. I’ve trained well and I’m ready for the challenge."

This Durban leg marks the first of three Totalsports Women’s 10km races scheduled across the country and is expected to draw thousands of runners, with the gun set to sound at 08:00 at Suncoast Casino.

Last year, Njoki dominated both the Durban and Cape Town legs of the race during Women’s Month, but among those expected to challenge her for the title are local favourite Taylor Kavanagh, Neheng Khatala of Lesotho and Kenya’s Jane Ghati Chacha.

“If I feel good at the 5km mark, I’ll go for it. That first half is crucial – if I get through it strong, I’ll make a serious push in the second," she acknowledged.

"It won’t be easy, but it’s worth the attempt. I have nothing to lose and everything to gain.”

READ: Karabo More set for gruelling Women’s Month race calendar