Glenrose Xaba humbled by Gerda Steyn’s backing for Cape Town Marathon victory

Steyn told SABC Sport that Xaba has what it takes to claim her second Cape Town Marathon title in May 2027. 

Xaba says hearing such praise from one of the country’s greatest distance runners has given her extra motivation to defend her title.

Xaba is now shifting her focus to the marathon after receiving R320 000 for winning a record fourth Spar Women’s 10km Grand Prix title.

"I need to focus on the marathon now and the focus will now be on doing two marathon races a year at least so that I can be ready for the Olympics."

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After dominating the Spar Women’s 10km Grand Prix, Xaba says she is ready to pass the baton to the next generation of runners. 

She will only make occasional appearances in the series next year, with her main focus shifting to the marathon.

The South African marathon record holder is also targeting qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, with next year’s marathon races forming an important part of her preparations.

While South African men continue to make their mark in marathon running, Xaba believes the women can also raise the country’s flag high on the international stage.

She says she, together with fellow South African distance runners like Irvette van Zyl and Cian Oldknow, have the potential to compete at major international marathons and represent the country at the Olympic Games.

The Mpumalanga-born runner, who is travelling overseas to compete in Sunday’s Hong Kong Marathon, says she is determined to grow her career over the marathon distance.

Xaba hopes that her hard work and commitment will eventually earn her a place at the Olympic Games as she sets her sights on Los Angeles 2028.