Defending SPAR Grand Prix champion Glenrose Xaba returned to winning ways by breaking the Tshwane course record on Saturday, securing her first victory of the 2026 series with a commanding performance in Centurion.
The Boxer Athletics Club star clocked 32:28 at SuperSport Park, taking one second off the previous course record of 32:29 set by Namibia’s Helalia Johannes in 2022.
It was Xaba’s first win of the campaign after finishing second behind Tayla Kavanagh in Cape Town and missing the Durban leg while competing internationally. With Kavanagh representing South Africa on the track at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Xaba capitalised to collect maximum points and strengthen her title defence.
Ethiopia’s Selam Gebre matched Xaba stride for stride through the opening half before the South African made her move shortly after the 5km mark. Xaba steadily pulled away before crossing the line alone. She also produced negative splits, covering the second half of the race 31 seconds faster than the first.
“I’m training for the half marathon at the World Road Running Championships in Copenhagen in September, and the race went according to plan,” said Xaba.
“Coming into the race, my strategy was to run very fast to get bonus points, and I was very happy to be back in Tshwane and running the SPAR race. I’m looking forward to the rest of the series.”
Gebre held on for second place in 34:10, earning her second podium finish of the season despite battling the conditions.
“The race today was very tough and intense, if I’m honest. The start time was different to what we’re used to, and the elevation kind of caught up with me and I couldn’t breathe at certain points. So, it was tough, but I had to push myself as best I could and I’m glad I came second,” said Gebre.
Kyla Jacobs produced a strong finish to secure third place in 34:21, collecting her second podium finish of the series. Both Gebre and Jacobs also earned bonus points for running faster than 34:40.
“It’s always great to be here for the Tshwane race because this is actually where my running career started, so I’m really proud and happy to be on the podium today,” said Jacobs.
“It was a great race. I tried to run conservatively and was able to pick the field up from the back, so I was happy with how I executed it.
The result injects fresh momentum into the SPAR Grand Prix title race, with Xaba back on the top step and Kavanagh set to return for the remaining races.
