“Defending champion Glenrose Xaba stormed to victory in the penultimate leg of the SPAR Grand Prix in Gqeberha, finishing in 31:17—her second-fastest career time and just five seconds off her national record. The event also saw 54-year-old Janene Carey achieve a historic milestone, becoming the first woman to complete 113 SPAR Women’s Challenge races.”
South African athletics witnessed another thrilling chapter on September 28, 2026, as Glenrose Xaba reaffirmed her dominance in the women’s 10km road racing scene. Competing in the penultimate leg of the SPAR Grand Prix series in Gqeberha, Xaba produced a scintillating performance that not only secured maximum points but also brought her agonizingly close to rewriting the national record books. Her time of 31:17 was just five seconds shy of her own South African record of 31:12, underscoring her consistency and hunger for excellence.
Race Dynamics
From the gun, Xaba set a blistering pace, determined to control the race and maximize her series points. Her training partner, Karabo More, attempted to stay with her early on, but by the 3km mark, only Ethiopian runner Selam Gebre remained in contention. By halfway, Xaba had decisively broken away, leaving the rest of the field chasing shadows. She crossed the finish line with a commanding lead, while More secured second place in a personal best of 32:21, and Gebre held on for third in 32:33.
Narrow Miss at the Record
Despite her victory, Xaba admitted to mixed emotions. She realized only in the final 100 meters that she was within striking distance of her national record. “I was not sure that I was on record pace while I was running, but with 50m or 100m to go I saw I was within that time and I crossed the finish line. I was disappointed because I just missed it,” she said.
Series Implications
This win was crucial for Xaba, who had only competed in three races in the series this year. By securing maximum points, she remains firmly in contention to defend her overall SPAR Grand Prix crown. The newly designed Gqeberha course also drew praise from athletes, with Xaba noting its potential to produce multiple records in the future.
Historic Milestone: Janene Carey
Beyond Xaba’s heroics, the race also marked a historic achievement for veteran runner Janene Carey. At 54 years old, Carey became the first woman to complete 113 SPAR Women’s Challenge races, finishing third in the 50–59 age group with a time of 41:37. Her longevity and passion for the sport have inspired countless athletes. “As you age, you kind of think, ‘when do I stop racing?’ but having the SPAR Grand Prix as a goal is something that makes you keep going,” Carey reflected.
Broader Impact on South African Athletics
The Gqeberha leg highlighted the depth of talent in South African women’s athletics. With multiple athletes dipping under 33:30, the race showcased the growing competitiveness of the field. For Xaba, her near-record run reinforces her status as one of the continent’s premier road runners, while Carey’s milestone underscores the inclusivity and longevity that the SPAR Grand Prix fosters.
Conclusion
As the SPAR Grand Prix edges toward its finale, Glenrose Xaba’s victory in Gqeberha sets the stage for a dramatic conclusion to the series. Her pursuit of records and titles continues to inspire, while Janene Carey’s historic milestone reminds the athletics community of the enduring spirit of competition. Together, their performances encapsulate the vibrancy and resilience of South African athletics.
