The heartbeat of Joburg’s running scene will quicken on Sunday, 9 November 2025, when the Boxer Super Run makes its long-awaited debut at Marks Park Sports Club.
And leading the elite women’s charge is none other than Glenrose Xaba, the reigning queen of the Durban and Tshwane editions.
Xaba is eyeing a golden hat-trick on the City of Gold’s streets.
Xaba, who has already blazed trails at the Boxer Super Run’s Durban and Tshwane debuts, says she’s ready to chase another piece of history.
“What I really love about the Boxer Super Run is that it brings great competition and amazing energy wherever it goes,” says Xaba.
“The event is well organised, the atmosphere is electric, and it always feels like a celebration of running.
“Boxer has done a great job of creating a platform where athletes can test themselves while also connecting with the community.”
For Xaba, a Joburg win would a complete a trilogy of triumphs.
“Winning in Joburg would complete a special streak. Taking gold at all three debuts would be something I’m really proud of,” she says.
“Each race has its own challenges, so to come out on top again would be a great reward for all the hard work and consistency my team and I have put in.”
With a R147 200 combined prize purse, the stakes are high.
“That kind of prize money motivates us to give our absolute best and helps us continue building our careers as professional runners,” adds Xaba.
“It’s great to see such strong support for road running in South Africa.”
Her plan? Keep it simple, stay sharp, and finish strong.
“My goal is always to run my best race, to stay focused, control my pace, and finish strong.
“Of course, I’ll be aiming for the win, but I also want to execute my race plan well and see how far I can push myself on the day.”
More, Taljaart, and Oldknow Ready to Test Their Stride
Running alongside Xaba will be her training partner Karabo More, the 2024 Durban champion, who believes the Joburg leg adds another spark to South Africa’s growing road-running circuit.
“Hosting the race in Joburg is exciting. The city has an incredible running culture and energy,” says More.
“It gives more athletes and fans the opportunity to be part of the experience and allows us to showcase local talent on a bigger stage.”
She, too, has her eyes on the prize.
“The R147K combined prize purse is an amazing incentive. It shows how serious and prestigious the event is.
“My goal is to run strong, stay consistent, and execute my plan with focus.
“I’ll be aiming for a personal best, but most importantly, I want to enjoy the race and finish proud.”
Joining them is Zanthe Taljaart, eager to make her debut in the series.
“The Boxer Super Run promotes community spirit and healthy competition. The 5km distance is fast and exciting — it demands both endurance and speed,” says Taljaart.
“I’ll be targeting a sub-17-minute finish, depending on race conditions.”
Also returning to the fray is Cian Oldknow, who sees the event as a springboard back into top form after a season of injury setbacks.
“The 5km is quite challenging, especially coming from longer distances like the 10km and marathon,” she admits.
“But it’s the perfect test of fitness. I’m just excited to be back on the start line and in a competitive space again.”
Boxer’s Commitment to the Sport
“We are excited to welcome Glenrose Xaba, Karabo More, Zanthe Taljaart, and Cian Oldknow to the Boxer Super Run debut in Joburg,” says Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores.
“The Elite Waves are always crowd-pleasers. You never know what will happen, and the finishes are often nail-biting.
“We encourage everyone to stay and cheer for the elites. It promises to be a day of running, competition, and celebration.”
Fast Facts: 2025 Boxer Super Run Joburg
Date: Sunday, 9 November 2025
Venue: Marks Park Sports Club
Distance: 5km
Prize Purse: R147 200 (Elite winners earn R20 000 each)
Elite Women Start: 09:45
Elite Men Start: 10:00
