Taylor Kavanagh reflects on a dream year after breaking national record

After winning races in Cape Town and Durban, she was well placed to challenge for the overall crown at her maiden Spar Women’s 10km Grand Prix series  but missed the Tshwane, Gqeberha and Joburg legs to focus on her international ambitions.

That decision paid off when she made history by setting a new South African 10km record of 30:50 at the Brasov Running Festival in Romania, breaking Glenrose Xaba’s previous record of 31:12

However, Kavanagh insists breaking the national 10km record has been the highlight of a season she will never forget.

“I am incredibly happy and proud of myself. Breaking the national record means a lot to me, especially because I started running at the age of 16 and went into the race with the goal of breaking it.

“2026 has been a dream year for my road-running career, and the record makes it even more special. I am super proud of myself and happy that all my hard work has finally been recognised,” she told SABC Sport.

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The Hollywood Athletics Club athlete also set a personal best in the 5000m at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and won the South African 10 000m title in Stellenbosch earlier this year.

The 2027 World Athletics Championships in China and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles are firmly on her radar as she looks to continue building on her success.

Kavanagh says taking a break will allow her to recover both physically and mentally before preparing for another important season.

“This means a lot to me, and I deserve a break. I knew I was not too far off the record before, and now I am taking an off-season break, not just physically but mentally as well.

“I also want to thank my running club for valuing and appreciating me. I am looking forward to the break,” she added.