New South African marathon record holder and SPAR Grand Series champion Glenrose Xaba, is R200,000 richer. She was handed that prize, as well as R75,000 for being the top South African in the SPAR Grand Prix series. In addition, she was given the keys to a Proton SUV X50 to use for a year.
“I made a lot of sacrifices so I could win it. For instance, in consultation with my mentor, Caster Semenya, I decided not to try to qualify for the Olympic Games and to focus on the SPAR races instead.
“I am so grateful to Caster and to my coach Violet Raseboya, who have encouraged and guided me this year.”
After her successful year in the SPAR Challenge series, Xaba went on to win the Cape Town Marathon, breaking Gerda Steyn’s national record in her debut marathon. Semenya believes Xaba has a very bright future.
“She’s determined, disciplined and takes instruction well,” said Semenya. “I think she will go very far.”
The three times SPAR Grand Prix winner, Tadu Nare, finished third on the Grand Prix table, edged out by her Nedbank teammate and fellow Ethiopian Diniya Abaraya. Abaraya received R100,000 and Nare R50,000. Abaraya also won the junior category. Cacisile Sosibo was fourth overall and she also won R50,000 for being the second South African on the leaderboard.
Photo: Supplied