'I'm very happy' - Course record and second consecutive high altitude sub 32 for Xaba at Absa JOBURG 10K

Glenrose Xaba delivered another distance running masterclass at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K on National Heritage Day (Tuesday 24 September 2024). After setting a 31:12 national record at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K in July and winning last month’s Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K in 31:51 which was the fastest time ever run by a South African woman at altitude, Xaba claimed victory in the City of Gold in her second consecutive sub-32-minute clocking at altitude.

SuperCharger, as she is affectionately known, produced a course record 31:55 to claim R60 000 in incentives for breaking the 32-minute barrier. Such was the SA 10km and 21km champion’s dominance that she won by over two minutes from Lesotho’s Blandina Makatisi (34:03) and her training partner Karabo Mailula (34:14).

Xaba set her second consecutive Absa RUN YOUR City Series course record, which was also her second consecutive sub-32 10km clocking at altitude. Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg.

"I'm very happy that I managed to win it. My aim was to win the race. In 2022, I obtained second position. The race was so difficult because the route was tough, and the wind was so very strong. The competition was very good because we had (Makatisi) who is an Olympian and Karabo Mailula, my training partner. I appreciate having all the ladies who are doing so

well," said a very happy Xaba.

In the men's race Gideon Kipngetich proved too strong for the local contingent. Looking to improve on the second place finish he achieved on his South African debut at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K on 25 August, the Kenyan took the lead just before halfway and held on to it. Despite a spirited chase from Chris Mhlanga, Kipngetich ultimately secured a comfortable 28:51 victory, which was also the new course record.

Kipngetich wins his maiden Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series race. Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg.

"It wasn't easy," admits Kipngetich. "My body took time to respond. It was cold and there was a lot of wind. I tried my best. Last month I was here to run the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K and I finished second. So, I went back to Kenya and trained hard. I was well prepared for this race."

Mhlanga followed Kipngetich home to earn his maiden Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series podium finish, while also making history by becoming the first man to ever claim five consecutive Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series top ten finishes in a single calendar year - a feat equaled by Elroy Gelant who claimed fifth place. Finishing ahead of Gelant was his Boxer Athletics Club teammate Kabelo Mulaudzi who took third place in 29:16 in what was his third successive 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series podium finish.

The streets of Joburg resembled a "sea of red" with thousands of runners taking on the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K. Photo Credit: Anton Opperman.

"We couldn’t be prouder of today’s incredible performances, especially from our elite men’s and women’s winners, who truly lit up the streets of Joburg. A massive congratulations to Gideon Kipngetich and Glenrose Xaba and to the thousands of runners who joined us in making the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K a spectacular event. To our sponsors and

partners, thank you for your unwavering support—it’s because of you that this race, and the entire series, was such a success. Closing off the 2024 series on National Heritage Day was truly one for the books, and we look forward to even more exciting races in 2025." – Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder.

"As we gathered to celebrate Heritage Day and the finale of the 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, we salute the thousands of participants who took to the streets for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K. This race, a vibrant tapestry of our diverse cultures and shared histories, showcased the spirit of South Africa as participants from every corner united in

celebration. Each step taken and every story shared has woven a stronger bond among us, reflecting resilience, community, and our rich heritage. Thank you to all who joined us on this incredible journey and made this event a true celebration of who we are as South Africans. Most importantly, we extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every one of

you for clocking your kilometres on Strava. Your efforts will enable us to donate R1 for every kilometre you ran or walked, reinforcing our dedication to creating a lasting impact in the areas that need it most," said Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Head of Sponsorships, Brand, and Marketing at Absa.