Race day has arrived and the atmosphere is palpable. Already, women are arriving in their thousands and readying themselves for Joburg’s most beautiful race.
Always a booming success, with community members and running enthusiasts coming together, the Jozi leg of the SPAR Women’s Challenge never disappoints.
Glenrose Xaba has already ensured that she will become the first South African woman to clinch the SPAR Grand Prix title since international athletes were admitted in 2019. She was also the last South African winner, having won the title in 2018. At the race, Xaba will be accompanied by her mentor, double Olympic gold medallist Caster Semenya and her coach Violet Raseboya.
“I have enjoyed a great year, and I want to end it off on a high,” said Xaba.
“I am prepared to give all I have to the race and I aim to end the SPAR Grand Prix season with another win and in a good time.”
Local runner Gerda Steyn revelled in the opportunity to run in the prestigious race. “As women, when you are collectively together and racing against one another and having fun, it’s very special and it’s all about us women on the day,” said Steyn.
“I am super excited. I love the SPAR races, and I am happy I am in town running my hometown Jozi.”
More than 10 000 runners have registered to participate in the race, so it is guaranteed to be one for the books.
Photo: Michael Sheeman/ Gallo Images.
Where to go:
Participants in the 5km race will gather at Umgeni Road, corner of Hill Road.
Those taking part in the 10km race will start at Buffalo Road, corner of Hill Road. To ensure the safety of the runners and to facilitate the smooth running of the event, several temporary road closures will be implemented from 5:00am to 11:00am on race day.
The race starts at 8am but participants are advised to get there early to allow themselves enough time to park, pick up their race packs and get to the starting line. There will be refreshment points along the race route, and medical support will be available.
Race day road closures:
* Corner of Judith and Beyers Naude roads
* Corner of Judith Road and Barry Hertzog Avenue
* Corner of Barry Hertzog Avenue and Sabie Road
* Corner of Sabie and Rustenburg roads
* Corner of Barry Hertzog Avenue and Umgeni Road
* Corner of Komatie Street and Greenhill Road
* Corner of Komatie Street and Troon Road
* Corner of Troon and Hill roads
* Corner of Troon and Orange roads
* Corner of Orange and Letaba roads
* Corner of Orange and Illovo roads
* Corner of Orange and Mazoe roads.
