Irvette Van Zyl targets strong Tshwane 10km as part of marathon preparations

Van Zyl, who was forced to withdraw from last year’s race just two days before the start due to a torn hamstring, is now fully recovered and looking forward to taking on the hilly Tshwane course on 24 August.

The 38-year-old is looking forward to competing again this year.

"Last year was heartbreaking. I was injured right after the Olympics and had to make the call to sit out the race," van Zyl told SABC Sport.

"My husband LJ ran and made me so jealous—I had to watch from the VIP area while he and the others competed."

READ: Xaba moves closer to Spar Grand Prix glory with Tshwane victory

Now fit and focused, she is preparing for back-to-back 10km races, with the Hollywood Athletics Club race on 30 August in Durban, and hopes for a podium in the Tshwane event.

"I really enjoy tough, hilly courses – they play to my strengths. I ran both the Two Oceans and the Comrades Marathons earlier this year," she added.

"While the results weren’t what I hoped for, I’m feeling good heading into August. I’d love to crack a top three finish in Tshwane."

A three-time Spar Grand Prix series winner, van Zyl says her ultimate goal this year is to claim a record-extending fifth Soweto Marathon title, with the 10km races serving as ideal speed work.

"The dream is to win Soweto again. That’s the big one. But these 10km races are helping me sharpen up. I’ve been training on hilly routes all year and I’m feeling confident. 

"I love racing in my hometown – Tshwane always delivers great support and good weather, with thousands of runners coming to support the race every year and this year will be no different,” she concluded.