The SPAR Women’s Challenge brought thousands together, with Glenrose Xaba’s victories across all five races standing out as a highlight of the season.
Johannesburg, South Africa (16 October 2025) – From Gqeberha to Tshwane and Jozi, few events light up South Africa’s running calendar quite like the SPAR Women’s Challenge. It’s a celebration of women, fitness, and community spirit that brings together thousands across the country, from social runners to seasoned elites. And this year, Glenrose Xaba closed out the season with an impressive performance.
Glenrose, also known as ‘Supercharge’, capped off a season to remember as she stormed to victory at the Jozi SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge on Sunday, clocking 33:07 at Marks Park Sports Club in Emmarentia. Her win was more than another opportunity to add a medal to her cabinet, it completed a clean sweep of all five SPAR Grand Prix races in 2025, making her the first South African to achieve the feat.
Behind her, Ethiopian Diniya Abaraya claimed second in 33:42, while Irvette van Zyl, a three-time Grand Prix champion, crossed the line third in 34:35. Irvette took an early lead but soon dropped back as Glenrose found her stride and admitted her opponents kept her on her toes.
“Irvette got us to a very fast start, and I am grateful for that. Then Selam and Diniya forced the pace until about four kilometres. From six kilometres, I just focused on my splits and on my own running.”
Her dominance this year has been nothing short of inspiring.
“I am very happy to be the first South African to win all five SPAR Grand Prix races this year, and to have won the SPAR Grand Prix for the third time.”
Diniya said she’s seen steady improvement throughout the season.
“I had a good race today, although I found the hills very challenging.”
Irvette who battled through illness before race day, was thrilled to finish strong.
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Among the 12 000 runners who packed the streets of Johannesburg was ultra-distance star Gerda Steyn, using the race as part of her speed training for the upcoming Cape Town Marathon.
Glenrose Xaba is also the defending champion of the Cape Town Marathon, which takes place this weekend. However, she is not listed among the participants this year. Even without her presence in Cape Town, her performances this season across the SPAR Grand Prix series have already made it a season to remember.
The race was also attended by Deputy Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Peace Mabe, who praised SPAR for its support of women’s sports.
Sources: Supplied
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