Kenya's Benson Kipruto held off a thrilling late charge from Alexander Mutiso to win the closest New York Marathon finish in history on Sunday while compatriot Hellen Obiri smashed the course record to win the women's race.

Kipruto took the tape in two hours, eight minutes and nine seconds to add the New York title to his previous major marathon wins in Boston, Chicago and Tokyo.

🏆 New York City Marathon men's champion 🏆

Benson Kipruto beats compatriot Alexander Mutiso in an incredible photo finish at the New York City Marathon 🗽

After 26.2 miles of running, the Kenyan duo both clock 2:08:09 and Kipruto takes the win by just 0.16 of a second 🤯 pic.twitter.com/jR8tJ4NQ0z

— AW (@AthleticsWeekly) November 2, 2025

Mutiso, the 2024 London Marathon winner, finished just 0.16secs behind his compatriot after a gripping duel over the final mile.

Kipruto looked to have done just enough to lead by several metres as the finish line loomed into view in Central Park.

But Mutiso kicked for home in a sprint finish and was just fractionally behind Kipruto as he took the tape.

"The last part was so hard, but I was giving myself morale, saying 'Come on you, you can win it, come on'," Kipruto said after his victory.

A tight race most of the way became a two-man race between Benson Kipruto and Alexander Mutiso over the final mile. https://t.co/3DE7M0efPo pic.twitter.com/tA3Y0rRET2

— Eyewitness News (@ABC7NY) November 2, 2025

"I was pushing so hard to make sure I win."

Kenya's Albert Korir, the 2021 New York winner, was third in 2:08:57.

Kenyan great Eliud Kipchoge, in what is expected to be his last major marathon appearance, finished 17th in 2:14:36.

In the women's race, meanwhile, Kenya's Obiri produced a devastating late kick to power to victory home in a new course record time.

Obiri, the 2023 New York winner, pulled away from compatriot Sharon Lokedi with just under a mile to go to cross in 2:19:51.

Obiri's time obliterated the 22-year-old course record of 2:22:31 set by Kenya's Margaret Okayo in 2003.

Lokedi, the New York winner in 2022, finished second in 2:20:07 while last year's winner Sheila Chepkirui was third in 2:20:24.

The top three finishers were all under Okayo's old course record.

"Amazing, it was a very good run for me," Obiri said afterwards. "We had a very strong field and I said to myself 'let me try to do my best.'

"In my mind I said to myself to be patient. I knew Sharon was there and she has won the New York Marathon before. I said 'Can I be the first one to win here?'".

Dutch star Sifan Hassan, the reigning Olympic marathon champion, was sixth in 2:24:43.

Adriaan Wildschutt broke another South African record on Sunday, setting a new national mark on his 21km debut at the Valencia half-marathon in Spain.

The 27-year-old distance runner finished fifth in 59:13 in a race won by former world record holder Yomif Kejelcha of Ethiopia in 58:02.

Wildschutt took 23 seconds off the five-year-old South African record of 59:36 set by Stephen Mokoka in Poland in October 2020.

Though his SA 10km record was recently broken by Maxime Chaumeton, Wildschutt extended his list of national marks to four with his latest performance.

Aside from the half-marathon record, he also holds marks over the 3 000m (7:32.99), 5 000m (12:55.02) and 10 000m (26:50.64) distances on the track.

Wildschutt, who finished 10th in the 10 000m race at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo last month, will lead the SA senior men's team in the 10km race at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee on 10 January, 2026.

Kenya's women's marathon world record-holder Ruth Chepngetich was banned for three years on Thursday after she admitted to anti-doping rule violations but her 2:09:56mark will remain on the books as it was set before her positive test.

Chepngetich, who smashed the record in Chicago last October, was provisionally suspended in July this year by the Athletics Integrity Unit after Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) was detected in a sample collected from the Kenyan athlete on 14 March.

The sample revealed an HCTZ concentration of 3 800ng/mL, far above the World Anti-Doping Agency's minimum reporting limit of 20ng/mL.

Chepngetich initially denied any wrongdoing and could not explain the positive result despite an AIU investigation, which included analysis of her medications, supplements and phone data.

CHEPNGETICH CHANGES EXPLANATION FOR POSITIVE TEST

However, on 31 July, two weeks after Chepngetich was suspended, she changed her explanation, saying she had unknowingly taken her housemaid's medication, which contained HCTZ, while ill.

The AIU said HCTZ is used clinically to treat fluid retention and hypertension, adding that diuretics may be abused to mask the presence in urine of other prohibited substances.

The AIU said Chepngetich's actions were reckless and indirectly intentional rather than accidental, initially applying a four-year sanction.

However, Chepngetich's early admission earned her a one-year reduction, resulting in a three-year ban issued on 10 September.

"The case regarding the positive test for HCTZ has been resolved but the AIU will continue to investigate the suspicious material recovered from Chepngetich's phone to determine if any other violations have occurred," AIU head Brett Clothier said in a statement.

"In the meantime, all Chepngetich's achievements and records pre-dating the 14 March 2025 sample stand."

Glenrose Xaba delivered a commanding solo performance at the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge in Johannesburg on Sunday, winning in 33 minutes and 7 seconds and completing a historic clean sweep of all five SPAR Grand Prix races this year.

Held at the Marks Park Sports Club in Emmarentia, the race drew a capacity crowd of 12 000 runners and supporters. But on the course, it was Xaba who stood out, powering away from the rest of the elite field before the halfway mark and never looking back.

“Irvette got us to a very fast start, and I am grateful for that,” said Xaba, referring to fellow South African Irvette van Zyl’s early surge. “Then Selam [Gebre] and Diniya [Abaraya] forced the pace until about four kilometres. From six kilometres, I just focused on my splits and on my own running.”

Xaba’s efforts paid off with a clear victory over Ethiopia’s Diniya Abaraya, who finished second in 33:42, and van Zyl, who came home third in 34:35. The win not only gave Xaba her third SPAR Grand Prix title overall but also made her the first South African athlete to win all five legs of the Grand Prix in a single season; a feat that could redefine the hierarchy in local and regional women’s road running.

“I am very happy to be the first South African to win all five SPAR Grand Prix races this year,” said Xaba, proudly holding her winner’s medal after the race. “And to have won the SPAR Grand Prix for the third time makes it even more special.”

For van Zyl, a veteran of South African distance running, the podium finish was a triumph of grit. “I went into the race with no expectations. I felt horrible yesterday and even wondered if I would be able to run. I just wanted to do my best,” she said.

Despite being overtaken by the midway point, van Zyl expressed admiration for her rival’s performance. “Glenrose has given everyone the belief that they can do better, and I think the international athletes will soon struggle to win the SPAR Grand Prix again.”

Abaraya, representing Nedbank and one of a growing contingent of East African runners on the local circuit, acknowledged the toughness of the Johannesburg course. “I had a good race today, although I found the hills very challenging,” she said. Still, her second-place finish capped off a strong series of performances throughout the SPAR season.

Further down the field, multiple Comrades and Two Oceans Marathon champion Gerda Steyn finished 11th. Steyn, using the race as part of her preparation for the Cape Town Marathon in two weeks, said she values the unique energy of the SPAR event.

“I always look forward to the SPAR Women’s Jozi race,” she said. “I love the vibe and the experience of running in a women’s-only race. I find lining up with thousands of other women inspirational.”

The day’s festivities were more than just about fast times and finish lines. Among the crowd was Deputy Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Peace Mabe, who praised SPAR for its ongoing investment in women’s sport and social development.

“It’s only through sponsorship that women’s sports will flourish,” said Mabe. “I would like to congratulate SPAR for their support for women’s road running and netball, but also for their campaigns to end gender-based violence and period poverty.”

The Jozi leg of the SPAR Women’s Challenge once again delivered on every front; elite athleticism, community engagement, and a celebration of women at every level of participation. But at the heart of it all was Glenrose Xaba, rewriting history and raising the bar for what’s possible in South African road running.

RESULTS

Open: 1. Glenrose Xaba (Boxer) 33:07; 2. Diniya Abaraya (Nedbank) 33:42; 3. Irvette van Zyl (Hollywood) 34:35; 4. Selam Gebre (Nedbank) 34:49; 5. Karabo Mailula (Tuks) 35:04; 6. Karabo More (Boxer) 35:22; 7. Mildred Kinyanja (Nedbank) 35:39; 8. Nyaingiri Kemuntu (Nedbank) 35:41; 9. Olga Firsova (Ind) 36P05; 10 Cacisile Sosibo (Boxer) 36:14

Junior: 1. Taya Pelser (Boxer0\ 39:00; 2. Chanell Groenewalt (Boxer) 39:54; 3. Andrea Steynberg (NWU) 40:04

40-49: 1. Olga Firsova (Ind) 36:05; Elizabeth Chenweno (Nedbank) 38:03; 3. Leilani Scheffe (Boxer) 39:32

50-59 1. Elizabeth Potter (Boxer) 43:05; 2. Salome Cooper (Jeppe Quondam) 43:34; 3. Anne Stewart (Atlantic) 43:44

60-69 1. Judy Bird (Boxer) 43:46; Ezna Flattery (Nedbank) 47:14; 3. Grace de Oliviera (Maxed Elite) 49:19

70-79: 1. Winnie Koekemoer (Team Vitality) 59:59; Annatjie Greyvenstein (Irene) 1:06:33; 3. Joan de Klerk (Run Zone) 1:09:01

Glenrose Xaba continued her dominance of the SPAR Women’s Challenge 10km with yet another compelling victory in the Gqeberha leg on Saturday morning

The Boxer Athletic Club runner clocked a fast 31:57 to breast the finish tape first ahead of surprise package Tyala Kavanagh (32:01) of Hollywood Athletics Club. Ethiopia's Diniya Abaraya, running in the green colours of Nedbank Running Club, completed the podium positions in 32:04.

Xaba has now won all the four races in the 2025 Grand Prix Series to hold on to her title with one more race – next weekend’s Johannesburg leg - to spare as she enjoys an unassailable 115 points. She becomes the first black athlete to win the SPAR Grand Prix three times having also reigned victorious back in 2018. Xaba adds her name on that stellar list which includes her compatriots Rene Kalmer, Irvette Van Zyl as well as Namibia’s Helalia Johannes and Tadu Nare of Ethiopia.

On a morning perfect for good running in the Windy City, Xaba lived up to her billing as favourite by starting on the front foot and looking fresh after opting to skip Wednesday’s Absa RUN YOUR CITY Joburg 10K.

Her usual nemesis Selam Gebre and her compatriot Diniya Abaraya stuck with her in the initial stage and history suggested the former would be her main competition. For a while it looked like the podium positions were decided as the trio enjoyed the lead. But having recently competed at the Buenos Aires Marathon where she finished in fourth place, Gebre struggled to keep up as Xaba injected the pace.

Resplendent in what is now becoming her trademark white cap, the athlete nicknamed ‘’SuperCharge’’ injected some pace into her run and that was all she wrote – the race was over as a contest, at least for the first spot.

Kavanagh dug deep to sneak into second spot ahead of Abaraya.

Speaking at the post-race media conference, Xaba’s delight at having sealed, yet another Grand Prix title knew no bounds – particularly given that she was not feeling well.

“I was not 100 per cent. My body was not responding well,” she said “The course was very fast. Last year I ran a course record. Today I did 31 high because my body was not responding well. I tried my best to push my pace, but I could not push much. But I told myself, ‘Let me keep the pace’ and then in the last three kilometres I said, 'let me give myself a push'.”

And push she did to register a victory that will see her swelling her bank balance by a cool R200 000 for winning the overall Grand Prix prize.

The Gqeberha SPAR Women’s Challenge was a sell-out 5000 runners with one lucky entrant Nomandla Lunguza of Kariega, Uitenhage drawn to win a Hyundai EXTER. SPAR in partnership with Hyundai have given away five Hyundai EXTER vehicles this season.

The final let of the SPAR Grand Prix will take place on Sunday morning, 05 October 2025 at marks Park Sporting Club in Emmerentia, Johannesburg.

Defending SPAR Grand Prix champion Glenrose Xaba (Boxer) will be looking to stamp her authority on the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge in Gqeberha on Saturday.

Xaba has won the first three races in the SPAR Grand Prix series and has a five-point lead on the SPAR Grand Prix table. She is aiming to become the third South African, after Rene Kalmer and Irvette can Zyl, to win the SPAR Grand Prix three times.

“I think I can be a role model for black girls,” says Xaba.

“I hope they are able to see my success and believe they can be successful too.”

The two Ethiopians, Salem Gebre and Diniya Abaraya, both from Nedbank, and rising TUKS star, Karabo Mailula, are expected to give Xaba some stiff competition.

Another of her challengers in Gqeberha is Tayla Kavanagh, who won the SPAR Women’s Challenge in Pietermaritzburg last month. Kavanagh (Hollywood) is currently in fine form and recently ran a personal best of 31:53 in the Total Sports 10km in Durban.

The SPAR Women’s 10km race starts and ends at Pollok Beach in Summerstrand. The gently undulating route is one of the most scenic of all the SPAR races and fast times can be expected.

SPAR Communications, PR, and Sponsorship manager Mpudi Maubane is delighted that the Gqeberha Race, like all the SPAR races this year, has been sold out.

“The SPAR Women's Challenges are more than just road races and fun runs; they are a powerful symbol of women empowerment, health promotion, and the fight against inequalities,” says Maubane.

“By participating, women are not only investing in their wellbeing but also contributing to a brighter future for all women in South Africa.

“Each of our SPAR Women’s Challenges is linked to SPAR’s ongoing commitment to ending Gender Based Violence as well as SPAR’s campaign to End Period Poverty by 2030,” she says.

“We are committed to raising awareness and providing crucial support to organisations working to combat these prevalent issues. This multifaceted approach ensures that the SPAR Women’s Challenges not only promote physical wellbeing but also contribute to a safer and more equitable society for women in South Africa.”

Defending SPAR Grand Prix champion Glenrose Xaba (Boxer) will be looking to stamp her authority on the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge in Gqeberha on Saturday. Xaba has won the first three races in the SPAR Grand Prix series and has a five-point lead on the SPAR Grand Prix table. She is aiming to become the third South African, after Rene Kalmer and Irvette can Zyl, to win the SPAR Grand Prix three times.

“I think I can be a role model for black girls,” says Xaba.

“I hope they are able to see my success and believe they can be successful too.”

The two Ethiopians, Salem Gebre and Diniya Abaraya, both from Nedbank, and rising TUKS star, Karabo Mailula, are expected to give Xaba some stiff competition.

Another of her challengers in Gqeberha is Tayla Kavanagh, who won the SPAR Women’s Challenge in Pietermaritzburg last month. Kavanagh (Hollywood) is currently in fine form and recently ran a personal best of 31:53 in the Total Sports 10km in Durban.

The SPAR Women’s 10km race starts and ends at Pollok Beach in Summerstrand. The gently undulating route is one of the most scenic of all the SPAR races and fast times can be expected.

SPAR Communications, PR, and Sponsorship manager Mpudi Maubane is delighted that the Gqeberha Race, like all the SPAR races this year, has been sold out.

“The SPAR Women's Challenges are more than just road races and fun runs; they are a powerful symbol of women empowerment, health promotion, and the fight against inequalities,” says Maubane.

“By participating, women are not only investing in their wellbeing but also contributing to a brighter future for all women in South Africa.

“Each of our SPAR Women’s Challenges is linked to SPAR’s ongoing commitment to ending Gender Based Violence as well as SPAR’s campaign to End Period Poverty by 2030,” she says.

“ We are committed to raising awareness and providing crucial support to organisations working to combat these prevalent issues. This multifaceted approach ensures that the SPAR Women’s Challenges not only promote physical wellbeing but also contribute to a safer and more equitable society for women in South Africa.”

Kenyans Sabastian Sawe and Rosemary Wanjiru won the men's and women's editions of the Berlin Marathon on Sunday, both breaking through for the first time in the German capital.

Sawe finished in 2hr 02min 16sec in just his third marathon attempt, 11 seconds slower than his personal best set on debut in Valencia in 2024.

"It was hard but I gave my best. I'm happy about my performance," Sawe told Germany's RTL network.

Sawe's time is equal ninth fastest in history, but fell outside the late Kelvin Kiptum's world record time of 2:00:35 and Eliud Kipchoge's course record of 2:01:09, set in 2022.

The 30-year-old, who had been tipped to challenge both of those records, declined to blame the warmer than usual conditions, with temperatures of 25 degrees celsius and high humidity, while promising to return to Berlin next year.

"I felt good. You can't change the weather of course. I was well prepared and I'm just pleased.

"I enjoyed the atmosphere in Berlin. I'm happy to be here and want to be back next year. I hope I can go a bit better."

Japan's Akira Akasaki finished second in a time of 2:06:15 and Ethiopia's Chimdessa Debele completed the podium with 2:06:57.

Wanjiru, who finished second in Berlin in 2022, is the first Kenyan woman to win the race since 2018.

The 30-year-old surged ahead after 25 kilometres. She was 36 seconds in front at the 40-kilometre mark but slowed slightly, allowing the chasers to cut the margin.

As Ethiopia's Dera Dida closed in with the Brandenburg Gate in sight, Wanjiru dug deep, pushing on to finish just three seconds ahead of her rival in a time of time of 2:21:05.

Fellow Ethiopian Azmera Gebru was third, coming in 24 seconds behind the winner.

Wanjiru's time was 12 minutes slower than Kenyan Ruth Chepngetich's world record time of 2:09:56, set in Chicago in 2024, and also well outside Ethiopia's Tigst Assefa's course record set in 2023.

MENGESHA DROPS OUT

The men started fast in the warmer than usual conditions in the German capital, recording the fastest opening kilometre in the race's history.

Sawe and the leading pack including 2024 winner Milkesa Mengesha and Gabriel Geay kept up the record pace early and were on track for the world mark inside the first 10 kilometres.

Sawe then separated himself from the leaders with 15 kilometres run, opening up an 11-second gap over Mengesha, while staying on world record pace at the half-way mark with a time of 60:16.

Sawe had run negative splits in both of his previous marathons but fell off the pace slightly in the second half of the race as the mercury climbed in Berlin.

Mengesha dropped out before the 30-kilometre mark.

Despite missing a personal best or challenging the course record of his mentor Kipchoge, Sawe's time is the best in the world for 2025, bettering his own previous mark set in London in April by 11 seconds.

Former world record holder Eliud Kipchoge and Olympic champion Sifan Hassan will make their New York City Marathon debut in November, organisers New York Road Runners said on Wednesday.

The pair headlined the Sydney Marathon last month as the 25-year-old race was elevated to the World Marathon Majors series, and the Dutchwoman broke the tape in two hours, 18 minutes and 22 seconds.

Hassan, the third-fastest woman of all time over the distance, finished third in London in 2:19:00 earlier this year.

The 40-year-old Rio and Tokyo Olympic champion Kipchoge has not notched a marathon win since his 11th major triumph in Berlin two years ago.

He became the first person to run a marathon in under two hours in 2019, an achievement likened to the moon landing, though the attempt was not recognised as an official record as it did not adhere to World Athletics rules for open competition.

New York is the only marathon major that Kipchoge has not run before.

The duo join a field that includes men's and women's defending champions Abdi Nageeye of the Netherlands and Sheila Chepkirui of Kenya, and past winners Albert Korir and Evans Chebet, also from Kenya.

Pre-race favourites Kabelo Mulaudzi and Glenrose Xaba lived up to the hype on Saturday, winning the senior men's and women's 10km titles at the ASA Cross Country Championships in Middelburg.

Mulaudzi won his third straight national cross country title, but he had to work for it in a hard-fought tactical race held in warm and windy conditions.

He had Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) teammates Zenzile Pheko and Bennett Seloyi for company until the last of five laps, though he finally managed to shake them off to win the race in 31:28.

Pheko, only 20 years old, grabbed the runner-up spot in 31:42, and Seloyi, the national marathon champion, finished third in 31:54.

"The race was tactical because this course is tough and last week I was racing, so I was a little bit stiff," Mulaudzi said.

"But I'm happy with my performance today, defending my title. I knew I was a target, so I just focused on my race and kept pushing."

Xaba had a much easier time of it, breaking away from the rest of the field on the first lap and gradually stretching her lead until she crossed the finish line nearly three minutes ahead of her nearest opponent in 35:12.

Her training partner and Athletics Gauteng North (AGN) teammate Karabo Mailula earned the silver medal in 37:57, and Cacisile Sosibo (CGA) hung on to grab bronze in 38:26.

"It was a bit windy and it was warm, but not too hot. And the course was good because it was challenging," Xaba said.

"I'm still preparing for my next marathon (later this year), so I needed that strength because cross country is about the power you put in. This is good preparation for the marathon."

OTHER RACE RESULTS

In other races, U23 athlete Sibusiso Msibi (CGA) won the men's 4km in 11:46, and he was followed home by AGN athletes Musawenkosi Mnisi, who clocked 11:58, and Etienne van Wyk who crossed the line in 12:00.

With the race combining the senior and U23 age groups, Abednico Choba (AGN) was the first senior athlete to finish, in fourth place overall (12:02).

Karabo More, representing AGN, successfully defended her national senior 4km title in 13:34.

Danielle Verster was 20 seconds behind More, completing the event in 13:54 in the colours of Athletics Central North West (ACNW) to take second position overall and win the U23 division.

Ntsoaki Mohlahloe of KwaZulu-Natal Athletics (KZNA) was third overall in 14:08, taking the silver medal in the senior division.

Over the 2km distance, Boikanyo Motlhamme (CGA) retained his national senior title in 5:38, and Carmie Prinsloo (AGN) won the senior women's race in 6:31.

Among the juniors, Amogelang Tatai (ACNW) won the U20 men's 8km race in 26:02. Anele Matsoso of Athletics Vaal Triangle (AVT) was second in 26:28 and Oratile Masigo (CGA) ended third in 26:48.

In the U20 women's 6km contest, Lara van der Merwe (AGN) triumphed in 22:56. Anele Ndawonde (KZNA) claimed the silver medal in 23:03, and Andrea Steynberg (ACNW) was 21 seconds further back, securing bronze in 23:24.

There was a record turnout in Middelburg, with more than 4 300 athletes representing all 17 of Athletics South Africa's member provinces across a wide range of age groups, from children under the age of 8 to runners over 90.

"What a splendid day it was!" was how James Moloi, the President of Athletics South Africa summarised it. "It was once again mass participation at its best.

"There can never be anything more joyous than watching the thrill of all age groups in competition, chasing their various dreams."

Olympic champion Sifan Hassan has confirmed her decision to skip the athletics world championships in Tokyo next month after deciding to take part in this weekend's Sydney marathon.

Hassan, who won the Olympic marathon in Paris last year, has represented the Netherlands at every world championships since 2015, winning six medals including her 1 500-10 000 metres golden double in Doha in 2019.

"It's in two or three weeks and I don't think I'm going to recover, I can barely walk the first couple of days after a marathon," the 32-year-old told a news conference on Thursday.

"It was so hard a decision for me because ... since 2015 ... I have never skipped any world championships and also it's in Tokyo, and I have great memories of winning two golds and one bronze at the Olympics there."

The Sydney marathon, which takes place on Sunday, has joined London, New York, Boston, Chicago, Tokyo and Berlin as part of the elite marathon majors series for the first time this year.

"I really want to be part of Sydney marathon, because it's part of the major marathons," Hassan added.

"I really thought about it, I really thought about what to do, but my heart really wanted to be (here). This one looks for me more exciting."

The world championships take place from September 13 to 21 at Tokyo's National Stadium, where Hassan won the 5 000-10 000 double and a bronze in the 1 500 at the Olympics four years ago.

Eliud Kipchoge says the desire to inspire others drove him to enter this week's Sydney Marathon, with the Kenyan legend admitting there was "huge pressure" on him to win.

The 40-year-old, arguably the greatest men's marathon runner of all time, headlines the field on Sunday in a race being run for the first time as one of the elite World Marathon Majors.

It puts it on a par with London, New York, Tokyo, Berlin, Chicago, and Boston, and two-time Olympic champion and 11-time major winner Kipchoge was eager to be involved.

"It's a huge pressure for me to win the race, but there's more pressure for me to inspire more people to take up running," Kipchoge, who is aiming for a major success in his fifth different city, told Olympics.com.

"For me, there's more pressure to show the people in Australia and beyond what's needed to enjoy running and showcase my longevity as far as marathon running is concerned."

Kipchoge failed to finish a marathon for the first time at the Paris 2024 Olympics, sparking speculation that his career may be nearing an end.

But he ran the London Marathon in April, finishing sixth, and said he was unfazed by retirement talk.

"I have nothing more to prove to the world," he said, adding that he wants to keep building on his legacy.

"I tell young people that the more you stay in any profession, the more you gain knowledge, get more expertise, and I believe that's what I am showing.

"What I learned from London is that consistency and patience still rule the day."

Joining Kipchoge on the start line and looming as a serious contender will be fellow Kenyan Vincent Ngetich, who has never finished lower than fourth in a World Marathon Major.

The depth of the field is bolstered by Ethiopia's Birhanu Legese, a two-time Tokyo Marathon winner, while the women are led by reigning Olympic champion Sifan Hassan and five-time major winner Brigid Kosgei.

Kenya's Brimin Misoi (2:06.17) and Ethiopia's Workenesh Edesa Gurmesa (2:21.41) both smashed the course record to secure victory in the men's and women's races in Sydney last year, before it was elevated to major status.

Glenrose Xaba appears to be in pole position to claim her third Spar Women’s 10km Challenge Grand Prix title, after winning the Tshwane Challenge at SuperSport Park at the weekend.

Xaba (Boxer) has won the first three races with maximum bonus points in Durban and Tshwane and five bonus points in Cape Town. She has a total of 85 points.

Hot on her heels is the Ethiopian runner, Selam Gebre (Nedbank), who has 80 points. Gebre also earned maximum bonus points in Durban and Tshwane, and five bonus points in Cape Town.

Xaba and Gebre are way ahead of their nearest rivals, but a real battle for the minor positions in developing between rising Tuks star, Karabo Mailula, who has 60 points, and Gebre’s teammate and fellow Ethiopian, Diniya Abaraya, who has 58. Their nearest rival is Cacisile Sosibo (Boxer), with 53 points.

If she maintains her lead until after the Jozi Challenge in October, Xaba stands to win R200 000. She will also win an additional R100 000 for being the top South African on the Spar Grand Prix ladder. The runner who finishes second after the five races will take home R100 000 and the third-placed runner will win R75 000.

Xaba was the last South African to win the Spar Grand Prix before it was opened to international athletes in 2019. In 2024, she became the first South African to win the title, if she retains her title this year, she will become the third South African and the first black South African, to win the title three times.

Xaba said after the Tshwane race that the introduction of international athletes has been good for the Spar Grand Prix.

“They are pushing us to run faster and to become more competitive internationally. I hope that my success will encourage young girls and young boys, I want them to look at me and think, ‘if she can do it, so can I.’ “

With 20 points. Including 10 bonus points in Tshwane, Wiepke Schoeman (Boxer) has a massive lead in the junior section over her teammates Taya Pelser and Chanel Groenewald. Pelser has nine points and Groenewald 8.

PHALULA LEADING THE WAY

Although she scored no points in Tshwane, Lebo Phalula (Boxer), with 20 points, has an 11-point lead over her nearest rivals, the Russian Olga Firsova and Janie Grundlingh (Peak Performance), who have nine points each in the 40-49 category.

In the 50-59 category, Anne Stewart, (Atlantic) has 23 points. Her nearest rival is Boxer runner Elizabeth Potter, with 20 points. This age group is highly popular and competitive with Stewart having run all three of this year’s races and Potter one less having missed the Cape Town race.

With maximum bonus points in each race, Judy Bird (Boxer) dominates the Sixty Plus category. She has 30 points and has won all the Grand Prix races so far this year. Her nearest rival is former Comrades Marathon gold medalist, Grace de Oliveira (Maxed Elite), who has 20 points.

The next race takes place in Gqeberha on 27 September and the final race in the Spar Grand Prix series is in Johannesburg on 5 October.

While the streets around SuperSport Park in Centurion echoed with the joy and strength of 17 000 women participating in the sold-out Spar Women’s Challenge Tshwane this past weekend, the true heartbeat of the event was the incredible impact made far beyond the finish line.

Hosted in Women’s Month, the 2025 edition of the Spar Women’s Challenge Tshwane once again proved that this iconic event is about so much more than a race. It is a rallying cry for community, empowerment, and giving back.

As part of the My Spar My Community campaign, over R350 000 was donated to organisations doing vital work to support and uplift women across the region. These include charities focused on early childhood development, educational support, the fight against Gender-Based Violence, and burn victim care at the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital.

“At Spar, we believe that when women thrive, communities thrive. This event is a celebration of our most loyal customers, but also a strategic and heartfelt platform to invest back into their lives and futures,” says Ralph Rajagopaul, Divisional Marketing Director – Spar North Rand & Botswana.

A significant highlight of this year’s event was the ongoing Spar End Period Poverty campaign, aimed at eradicating period poverty by 2030. Thanks to the sanitary pad donation drive and the support of thousands of participants, 4 000 girls will now be able to stay in school for another month, removing a critical barrier to education.

“Empowerment starts with dignity,” says Mpudi Maubane, National PR, Communications & Sponsorships Manager at Spar South Africa. “By tackling challenges like period poverty and supporting GBV prevention programmes, we are making bold strides toward a future where every girl has the opportunity to thrive.”

The day was also filled with moments of joy and celebration. In a highlight that had the entire stadium cheering, one lucky participant won a brand-new Hyundai Exter worth R269 000, adding even more excitement to an already memorable event.

Elite athletes were also recognised for their incredible talent, with Glenrose Xaba taking top honours in the 10km race and walking away with R43 000 in prize money. In total, R195 500 in prize money was awarded – all to women – underlining Spar’s commitment to creating tangible opportunities for female athletes to succeed.

The Spar Women’s Challenge Tshwane continues to be more than a race – it is a movement. One that celebrates resilience, honours womanhood, and builds a better, more equitable future for all.

Defending SPAR Grand Prix champion Glenrose Xaba (Boxer) secured her third SPAR Women’s 10km win of the year when she won the Tshwane race by a whisker on Saturday afternoon.

Xaba, who is aiming to become the third South African and first black runner to win the SPAR Grand Prix Series title three times, finished the race in 32:39 minutes, just ahead of Ethiopian Diniya Abaraya (Nedbank), who finished in 32:41. Abaraya’s teammate and fellow Ethiopian Selam Gebre was third in 33:17. Nedbank’s Kenyan runner Debrah Cherotich was fourth in 33:38.

Former three times SPAR Grand Prix winner Irvette van Zyl (Hollywood) surprised everyone when she shot into the lead at the start of the race, but the four front runners dropped her at the two-kilometre mark and ran together for the next five kilometres, when Xaba surged into the lead. She appeared to be well ahead of the two Ethiopians, but they made up lost ground and nearly caught her on the finish line. Xaba admitted later that she had been taken by surprise.

“I thought I had dropped them, so I wasn’t aware how close they were,” she said.

Xaba, who won her sixth South African half marathon title a week ago, attributed her success to her coach and her mentor, Violet, and Caster Semenya.

“They help me in so many ways, keeping me injury free and working out strategies for me,”

She thanked the Ethiopian and Kenyan runners for pushing South African runners to do better.

“They are making us competitive internationally,” said Xaba.

Xaba said she hoped her success would encourage the next generation of South African runners.

“They can see my success and believe they can succeed too,” she said.

The two Ethiopians both expressed their admiration for Xaba.

“I am amazed at how powerful she is, taking the lead from the start and staying there,” said Abaraya.

She said she had found the hilly course very challenging.

Van Zyl, who won a gold medal at the Comrades Marathon in June, said she was very excited about the young runners who were making their mark in South African road running.

“I am also so thrilled to see a South African winning again. I have watched Glenrose since she started and I am so impressed by her,” said Van Zyl.

The sell out SPAR Women’s Tshwane Challenge had 17 000 participants.

Pauline Mathebula was drawn as the lucky winner of a Hyundai Exter valued at R269 900.

"Hyundai Automotive South Africa is proud to further solidify its commitment to supporting women's health, sporting excellence and unity. As part of this partnership, we are delighted to have given-away a brand-new Hyundai EXTER at this weekend's SPAR Women's Challenge Tshwane in Centurion. The Hyundai EXTER, with its bold design, advanced safety features and its innovative aspects; mirrors the very key qualities we see in these remarkable participants," said Stanley Anderson, CEO of Hyundai Automotive South Africa.

In support of the fight against Gender Based Violence and to End Period Poverty, SPAR through the Tshwane SPAR Women’s Challenge made donations to Basadi Ba Moshito Foundation and Love Justice International through the “Rope Runner” who completed the 10km in her trademark skipping style.

Results of the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge run at SuperSport Park on Saturday

Open: 1. Glenrose Xaba (Boxer) 32:39; 2. Diniya Abaraya (Nedbank0 32:41; . 3. Selam Gebre (Nedbank) 33:17; 4, Debrah Cherotich (Nedbank) 33:17; 5. Karabo More (Boxer) 34:03; 6. Nicola Jansen (Boxer) 34:16; 7. Karabo Mailula (Tuks) 34:34; 8. Irvette van Zyl (Hollywood) 34:42; 9. Cacisile Sosibo (Boxer) 34:55; 10. Carina Swiggers (Boxer) 36:12

Junior: 1. Wiepke Schoeman (Boxer) 38:16; 2. Taya Pelser (Boxer) 38:59; 3. Chanel Groenewald (Boxer) 39:45

40-49: 1. Leilani Scheffer (Boxer) 39:40; 2. Jeannie Henderson (Nedbank) 39:46; 3.Andrea Steyn (Trivium) 40:09

50-59 1. Elizabeth Potter (Boxer) 4:49; 2. Anne Stewart (Atlantic) 42:51; S3. Salome Cooper (Jeppe Quondam) 43:14

60-69 1. Judy Bird (Boxer) 43:00; 2. Gail Babich (Savages) 47:01; 3. Dalene Sonnekus (Nedbank) 48:12

70+ 1. Winnie Koekemoer (Team Vitality) 01:01:16; 2. Annatje Greyvenstein 01:06:22; 3. Lettie Coetzee (Pretoria Bobbies) 01:14:43

Thabang Mosiako and Glenrose Xaba delivered stunning performances on Saturday to win the national half-marathon titles at the ASA Road Running Championships, which was incorporated in the annual Foskor Half-Marathon in Phalaborwa.

Competing in warm conditions on a challenging course, Mosiako was superb, coasting to a comfortable victory in the men's 21km race. He stopped the clock at 1:02:47 to reclaim the SA title he won in 2023, leading an Athletics Central North West (ACNW) sweep of the podium.

Mosiako finished well clear of the rest of the field, with Thomas Lebese of Lesotho taking second place in the open race in 1:04:00.

Reghan Magwai was third overall in 1:04:16, taking the runner-up spot in the national championships, while ultra-distance specialist Onalenna Khonkhobe earned the bronze medal, after clocking 1:04:17.

"After I won in 2023, a rough patch followed me. So, I'm happy with my comeback and I can see the way forward. I think after today I will have that confidence again," said Mosiako.

"The conditions were not bad because I've been training in Potchefstroom where it's quite hot, so I came here ready for this race."

In the women's race, Xaba earned her sixth national title over the 21km distance in the colours of Athletics Gauteng North (AGN).

She completed the race in 1:10:03, breaking the course record which was held by former world record holder Elana Meyer and finishing more than three minutes clear of Lesotho's Neheng Khatala, who was second in the open race in 1:13:28.

Cacisile Sosibo grabbed the silver medal in the national championship contest in 1:15:14 and Samantha Coetzer secured bronze in 1:22:52.

"This race is always run under hot conditions (in Phalaborwa), but it was warm today, but the conditions were not as bad as it can get here," Xaba said. "It motivated me to break Elana Meyer's record because I was inspired by her achievements and I wished one day I could break her records."

In other events at the ASA Road Running Championships, Kabelo Mulaudzi won gold for Central Gauteng Athletics in the men's 5km race in 14:00. Musawenkosi Mnisi (AGN) took second place in 14:09 and Jerry Motsau (ACNW) was third in 14:17.

In the women's 5km battle, Karabo More (AGN) triumphed in 16:37, with Zanthe Taljaard securing the silver medal for Athletics Vaal Triangle (AVT) in 16:56 and Busisiwe Chamane taking bronze in 17:19 in the colours of KwaZulu-Natal Athletics (KZNA).

Over the mile (1.609km) distance, Boikanyo Motlhamme (CGA) charged to victory in 4:02 and Tshegofatso Pilane (AGN) earned silver in 4:03. Ryan Mphahlele (CGA), who also clocked 4:03, finished third.

Carmie Prinsloo (AGN) won the women's mile in 4:41, with Ntsoaki Molahloe (KZNA) taking second position in 4:46 and Andrea Steynberg (ACNW) hanging on for bronze in 4:50.

The final leg of the national women's only 10km SPAR Grand Prix series, in Jozi has launched and entries are open.

Defending SPAR Grand Prix Champion, Glenrose Xaba, who also won last year's Jozi race has confirmed that she will defend her title in October.

Thousands of women across Gauteng are preparing to lace up and #Twenty20Thrive at the 2025 SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi, set to take place on Sunday, 5 October 2025 at Marks Park Sports Club in Emmarentia. As one of the country’s most beloved women-only road running events, this year’s race promises even more inspiration, empowerment and community spirit forming part of the currently running, My Jozi My SPAR campaign. Plus, one lucky participant will drive away in a brand-new Hyundai Exter – just by entering and joining on race day!

The theme for 2025, #Twenty20Thrive, is a celebration of resilience and women thriving in their personal journeys, careers, and communities—regardless of life’s challenges.

Entries are now available at selected SPAR stores across Johannesburg, to find a participating store near you, visit: https://sparwomenschallenge.co.za/jozi-list-of-stores/

“We are proud to once again bring Jozi women together through the SPAR Women’s Challenge,” says Maxine D’Amico, Promotions & Advertising Manager for SPAR Inland. “This event is not only a celebration of fitness and fun, but also of community. Through our My Jozi My SPAR campaign, we’re creating platforms where women can thrive—on the road, in sport and in life.”

Entries cost R180 for the 5km, R180 for the 10km (without a temporary ASA license) and R240 (with a temporary ASA license), and each entry pack includes the official new moisture management race t-shirt, race number and the My Jozi Challenge Magazine.

This year’s event proudly supports three incredible beneficiaries:

- Reach For Recovery – supporting breast cancer patients through emotional and practical support

- Leaf line – committed to End Period Poverty and promoting environmental sustainability in disadvantaged communities

- Komani – committed to End Period Poverty and empowering youth through education and wellness initiatives

Netball icon and SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi ambassador, Bongi Msomi, shared her support:

“The SPAR Women’s Challenge is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of women, community, and strength. As someone who’s experienced SPAR’s unwavering commitment to women’s sport, I’m inspired to see how they continue to uplift and empower through events like this.”

This year’s event is made even more exciting through the support of some new sponsors and partners. Local favourite partners like Hoka, NPL and Benefit Makeup will be bringing their energy and flair to the Jozi event, while national sponsors Hyundai and Powerade are backing the overall SPAR Women’s Challenge series across South Africa. Their involvement helps elevate the experience for every participant – from the starting line to the finish.

“We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors and partners whose support ensures that we can create a world-class experience for our participants,” says Cornel Steyn, SPAR South Rand Sponsorship Controller. “Their contributions allow us to go the extra mile in terms of atmosphere, athlete care, and meaningful engagement with the communities we serve.”

Whether you're running for a cause, walking with friends, or cheering on the sidelines, the SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi is your chance to thrive. Join us in making 2025 the most impactful year yet!

Event Details:

Event: SPAR Women's Challenge Jozi 2025

Date: Sunday, 5 October 2025

Time: 8AM

Venue: Marks Park, Johannesburg

Strong fields will toe the line on Saturday, with national titles up for grabs over various distances at the ASA Road Running Championships to be held in Namakgale, Phalaborwa, in the Limpopo province.

In the half-marathon event, which is incorporated into the F21 Half-Marathon, Elroy Gelant and Glenrose Xaba will turn out as the pre-race favourites in defence of their national titles.

Gelant, who overcame tough conditions to win the SA men's 21.1km title in Gqeberha last year, will be joined in the line-up by Athletics Central North West (ACNW) teammate Thabang Mosiako, also a former national champion.

They are up against a field which also includes in-form athlete Bennet Seloyi, representing Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA).

Xaba will target her sixth national half-marathon title for Athletics Gauteng North (AGN) in the women's race, and her strongest challenge is likely to come from CGA athlete Cacisile Sosibo, who has also run under 70 minutes over the 21.1km distance.

In the 5km event, the men's line-up includes Jerry Motsau, a former national 3 000m record holder on the track, who will represent ACNW.

Motsau is facing a field which also features Andries Sesedi, a former SA 10 000m champion, and his CGA teammate Chris Mhlanga.

A strong Western Province Athletics (WPA) team will also be confident of putting up a fight with the likes of Bruce-Lynn Damons and Ashley Smith in their ranks.

Among the women, a tightly contested war is expected to be waged between some of the country's top middle-distance runners.

QThe AGN squad will be led by Karabo More and Simonay Weitsz, but they will have to hold off an expected challenge from Zanthe Taljaard, running in the colours of Athletics Vaal Triangle.

In the men's mile (1.609km), national record holder Ryan Mphahlele will turn out for CGA as the firm favourite for gold.

The AGN team will be looking to dominate the women's race, spearheaded by the likes of Carmie Prinsloo and Carina Swiegers.

"We return our focus to domestic competition, after a successful and victorious trip to the CAA African U18, U20 Championships in Abeokuta, Nigeria where we returned as continental champions.

'We are also happy to spread our championships to other provinces and it will be a welcome change for athletes to run at high altitude. We wish well our hosts, Limpopo Athletics and all other roleplayers including the organisers of F21 race, where we are incorporated, " said James Moloi, the President of Athletics South Africa.

Peres Jepchirchir said on Wednesday she was relishing her imminent return to Japan for the first time since storming to Olympic marathon gold at the Covid-delayed Tokyo Games in 2021.

Jepchirchir has been named as one of three Kenya women in the marathon squad for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo on 13-21 September .

The other athletes include the current Rotterdam marathon champion Jackline Cherono and Magdalyne Masai, who was fourth in this year's Tokyo marathon.

Jepchirchir, 31, a two-time half world marathon champion, overcame intense heat to take gold at the Tokyo Olympics in August 2021, beating fellow Kenyan and former world marathon record-holder Brigid Kosgei.

"I am happy with the confidence the Kenyan selectors have had in me despite the disappointment in the Paris Olympics," she told AFP in Nairobi.

"It's my first time to compete in the World Championships, and I'm looking forward to it," she added.

"We know Ethiopia have selected a strong team and they're the defending champions. But I believe in the Kenya team and I pray God will give us health and strength that day to face them."

The women's marathon will be held on 14 September, followed by the men's race a day later.

The Kenyan men's team is led by Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich, whose best time is 2:03:13, which he recorded while making his debut in the 2023 Berlin marathon when he finished second to Eliud Kipchoge.

Kipchoge, the two-time Olympic champion, will not take part in Tokyo.

KENYA's 58-MEMBER TEAM

WOMEN

400m - Mercy Oketch

800m - Mary Moraa, Lilian Odira, Vivian Kiprotich, Sarah Moraa

1500m - Faith Kipyegon, Nelly Chepchirchir, Susan Ejore, Dorcas Ewoi

5000m - Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet, Agnes Jebet Ngetich, Margaret Ekidor

10000m - Beatrice Chebet, Agnes Jebet Ngetich, Janeth Chepngetich

3000m S/Chase - Faith Cherotich, Doris Lemngole, Pamela Kosgei

Marathon - Peres Jepchirchir, Jackline Cherono, Magdalyne Masai, Vivian Cheruiyot (Reserve)

4x400 Mixed Relay - Mercy Chebet, Lanoline Aoko, Esther Mbagari

MEN

100m - Ferdinand Omanyala

400m - George Mutinda,Brian Tinega, Kevin Kipkorir

800m - Emmanuel Wanyonyi, Nicholas Kiplangat Kebenei, Kelvin Loti

1500m - Phanuel Kipkosgei Koech, Reynold Cheruiyot, Timothy Cheruiyot

5000m - Nicholas Kipkorir

10000m - Edwin Kurgat, Ismael Kipkirui, Benson Kiplangat

3000m S/C - Edmund Serem, Simon Kiprop Koech, Abraham Kibiwott

400m Hurdles - Wiseman Were

Marathon - Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich, Erick Kiplangat Sang, Kennedy Kimutai, Hillary Kipkoech (reserve)

Ruth Chepngetich, the Kenyan who shattered the women's marathon world record lyear, has been provisionally suspended on suspicion of doping, the Athletics Integrity Unit said on Thursday.

Chepngetich, who improved the record to 2hr 09min 56sec in Chicago in October, has been suspended after testing positive for the banned diuretic hydrochlorothiazide on 14 March this year.

AIU head Brett Clothier said 30-year-old Chepngetich's case was being investigated and would be heard by a disciplinary tribunal.

"When there is a positive test for diuretics and masking agents, a provisional suspension is not mandatory under the World Anti-Doping Code," he explained.

"Chepngetich was not provisionally suspended by the AIU at the time of notification. However, on 19 April she opted for a voluntary provisional suspension while the AIU's investigation was ongoing.

"In the intervening months, the AIU continued its investigation and today issued a Notice of Charge and imposed its own provisional suspension."

In April, Chepngetich withdrew from the London Marathon, saying she was "not in the right place mentally or physically to race my best".

Hydrochlorothiazide is used to treat fluid retention and hypertension.