Taylor Kavanagh marks her comeback with a win at the Durban International

The 23-year-old, representing Hollywood Athletics Club, clocked 34 minutes and 20 seconds as she crossed the finish line at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The national 5km champion was thrilled to secure victory in her home province and used the race as part of her preparation for the upcoming Absa Run Your City and Spar Women’s 10km events scheduled for next week and June.

The Durban-born athlete expressed satisfaction with her performance and vowed to improve her time in the races ahead.

"I ran well today, and I'm pleased with my performance—it's exactly what I had planned for the competition. Overall, I'm satisfied," said Kavanagh.

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Favourable weather conditions, including the absence of wind, provided the perfect setting for Kavanagh to deliver an impressive performance.

The athlete stuck to her race plan and executed it with precision. “Coming into the race this morning, my aim was to have a solid run, find a good rhythm, and enjoy the experience,” Kavanagh said.

“It’s my first race in a while, so I wanted to post a decent time that I can build on in the coming months. Overall, I’m satisfied with how I ran today.”

Kavanagh says competing in a race of this calibre in her hometown is helping her raise her performance.

“We’re really grateful to have events like this in Durban. Today’s race was well organised, and I have no complaints—the weather was perfect, and the support on the course was excellent, with water and everything we needed along the route. It was a great experience, and I want to thank the City of Durban for getting involved and supporting the runners, “she said.