Glenrose Xaba took no prisoners in Johannesburg crossing the finish line at Mary Fitzgerald Square (Newtown) in a time of 35:05 seconds. Photo credit: Tobias Ginsberg
Mbhele, Xaba and Bothma take top honours in three Women’s Races
Three Totalsports Women’s Races took place on National Women’s Day 9 August with Jenet Mbhele, Glenrose Xaba and Annie Bothma picking up victories.
Glenrose Xaba took no prisoners in Johannesburg crossing the finish line at Mary Fitzgerald Square (Newtown) in a time of 35:05 seconds. Photo credit: Tobias Ginsberg
In a first for in the Totalsports Women’s Race, the 10km events in three different cities – Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town – were all held on Friday.
Jenet Mbhele was the first 10km runner to cross the finish line at the Kings Park Athletics Track in Durban.
“I was prepared to do well today. I broke away from the leading group at round about the 5km mark and kept the lead. I am so happy to take first place. It has motivated me to continue doing well.”
Mbhele claimed gold in a time of 34 minutes 51 seconds. Jenna Challenor came in second in 35:19, while Janie Grundling finished third in 37:19.
Glenrose Xaba stormed to victory in Johannesburg crossing the finish line at Mary Fitzgerald Square in a time of 35:05.
“I am very happy with my race today,” says Xaba.
“I enjoyed the course, it had hills. I broke away from the group on approximately the 1 – 2km mark and decided to go with my own pace. The Totalsports Women’s Race is an amazing race. The support and vibe is great. I like it.
“My year started on a rough note with injuries, so I feel very excited to cross the finish line first. I wanted to gain confidence.”
Carina Viljoen came in second in 35:56, while Kathryn van Meter finished third in 37:07.
Annie Bothma successfully defended her title when she crossed the finish at Grand Parade (Cape Town CBD) in a time of 34 minutes 52 seconds.
“I came here with only one purpose,” said Bothma. “I didn’t really care about the time. I just wanted to defend my title.
“The race is challenging because it’s a very hilly course and I knew that Zintle (Xiniwe) is a very strong runner. I like this course because I am strong on hills.
I repeated the mantra ‘conquer the hills you are stronger than the hills’. It feels incredible to successfully defend my title today. The vibe makes this race so special. It’s so beautiful to see all these women unite on one day and run together.”
Xiniwe came in second in 37:06, while Beetrice Themane finished third in 37:26.
