She clocked 31:25, 32:12, and 31:55 in the 10km races so far this season and, as she approaches the Absa Run Your City Tshwane 10km, Xaba is positioned as one of the favourites to clinch victory.

“I have a good understanding of the course since I’m situated in Pretoria and conduct training here. Thus familiarity gives me insight into what race day will entail," Xaba told SABC Sport.

"My objective revolves around achieving another personal best, while deriving enjoyment from the race. With favourable circumstances, I aspire to secure the position of the leading athlete at the finish line."

The event is set to take place at the Unions Building on Sunday morning at 08:00, offering a prize money of R30 000 to the first male and female participants to cross the line.

The women’s race in Tshwane boasts some big names in the likes of Lesotho’s Neheng Khatala, Cacisile Sosibo, and Gerda Steyn.

Xaba’s final domestic race will precede her representation of South Africa at the World Half-Marathon Championships in Latvia on 1 October, thus she won’t be participating in the Joburg 10km race scheduled for the same day.

"My preparations are progressing smoothly. We’re adhering to the strategic plan and eagerly anticipating race day’s outcomes. Nonetheless, I hold a strong belief in my prospects,” Xaba added.

Steyn, reigning champion of both the Two Oceans and Comrades Marathons, expressed her intention to concentrate on her own race rather than fixating on Xaba or Khatala.

"The fact that we are running over hilly terrain suits me though, so I am excited to see what I can do on race day,” said Steyn.

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