Gerda Steyn backs Glenrose Xaba to shine at Cape Town Marathon

Steyn has effectively ruled herself out of the Cape Town Marathon, admitting that competing in three major races within a short period would be too demanding.

The Cape Town Marathon takes place in May, between the Two Oceans Marathon in April and the Comrades Marathon in June.

With the 100th edition of the Comrades next year, Steyn has made it clear that defending her two ultra-marathon titles remains her biggest priority.

“I will leave the Cape Town Marathon to Glenrose. I believe she can make us proud and win it again. I can’t do the Two Oceans, Cape Town and Comrades in the same year. Unfortunately, I have to miss the Cape Town Marathon again,” Steyn told SABC Sport.

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The 36-year-old two-time Olympian says the timing of the Cape Town Marathon makes it difficult to fit into her racing programme.

She believes the race was easier to accommodate when it was held in October, but the move to May has created a challenge for athletes targeting the Comrades Marathon.

“When the Cape Town Marathon was in October, it worked better for me, but May is too close to the Comrades. Glenrose is doing well and has the potential to excel in the marathon. I believe she can do well if she runs more marathons,” Steyn said.

Xaba will not compete in a marathon this year but has confirmed that she plans to include one or two marathon races in her 2027 programme, with the Cape Town Marathon among her possible targets.

For Steyn, the focus is firmly on the Two Oceans and Comrades Marathon. She will be hoping to defend both titles and add another memorable chapter to her already impressive ultra-marathon career.