Glenrose Xaba moves closer to Spar Grand Prix glory with Tshwane victory

Xaba clocked 32:29 in a sold-out race of more than 10 000 runners, extending her unbeaten streak in this year’s series and positioning herself as the likely overall champion. 

A victory would see her become the first black South African woman to win the prestigious title.

The 29-year-old has now secured wins in all three races held so far—in Cape Town, Durban, and now Tshwane—with just two legs remaining: Gqeberha on 27 September and Johannesburg on 5 October. 

If Xaba clinches the overall title, she will become only the fourth athlete to win the Grand Prix three times, joining Irvette Van Zyl, Rene Kalmer, and Ethiopia’s Tadu Nare.

Ethiopian runner Diniya Abaraya placed second in 32:41, followed by fellow countrywoman and Nedbank Running Club teammate Selem Gebre, who finished third in 33:38.

Speaking to SABC Sport after her win, Xaba expressed pride in her achievements and a desire to inspire the next generation. 

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“The Spar Grand Prix series is where my road running journey began.

Winning it for the third time—and becoming the first black woman to do so—would mean so much more than just a title,” she said. 

“It would be about inspiring young girls and upcoming athletes like my teammate Karabo More. I want them to believe they can reach this level too.”

Xaba also had a strong message for aspiring athletes: stay consistent, work hard, and never skip training—no matter how tough it gets.

“Even when you’re tired, you have to show up. We have to push through the difficult days to keep building momentum,” she said.

The Mpumalanga-born athlete credited her success to the unwavering support of her team.

“It’s been an incredible year for me. I’ve been able to perform well because I’m surrounded by people who take care of me. I felt confident today that I would win,” she added.

Xaba walked away with R200,000 in prize money and a brand-new Hyundai, but for her, the real victory lies in paving the way for those who follow.