Xaba becomes first South African to win SPAR Grand Prix since 2018

After a fiercely competitive race, Glenrose Xaba emerged victorious in the SPAR Women's Challenge Joburg leg. Stay tuned for highlights and celebration moments!

4 hours ago

Aimee McGill 1 minute read

Glenrose Xaba (Boxer) wins the Joburg leg of the SPAR Grand Prix, as well as the overall Grand Prix title.

SPAR Women’s Challenge Joburg leg winner Glenrose Xaba completed an unforgettable day of road running to take home the title.

Xaba finished in a time of 32.48 minutes, followed by Tadu Nare from Ethiopia in a time of 34 minutes and Diniya Kedir Abaraya, also from Ethiopia in a time of 34.14 minutes.

Local running legend and Comrades Marathon winner Gerda Steyn finished in 6th place in a time of 35.11 minutes.

The field of participants in the 10km challenge was strong as always, with runners from around the world participating.

South African Glenrose Xaba had already done enough this season to secure the SPAR Grand Prix title before the Joburg race, but that did not stop her from pushing to be her best in the final race of the season.

Third and second place winners of the 10km, Diniya Kedir Abaraya and Tadu Nare.

The SPAR Grand Prix has not had a South African winner since international athletes were permitted to enter in 2019.

While the SPAR Grand Prix is an esteemed athletic event, thousands take part for the fun of it. At a jam-packed Mark’s Park Sports Club in Emmarentia, roughly 10 000 runners took on either the 5km or 10km road race challenge, and the enthusiasm on the roads of Emmarentia was contagious.

Always a festive occasion, the day will filled with cheers and high spirits. Colourful outfits and vibrant tutus were the go-to attire with participants all making the best of the beautiful spring morning in the City of Gold.