Irvette Van Zyl charges forward with her plans for the upcoming year

Van Zyl triumphed in the People’s Race with a remarkable time of 2 hours, 34 minutes, and 16 seconds, marking her return to the marathon after a three-year hiatus by injuries.

Resuming her pursuit from the 2019 triumph, where she claimed her third title, Van Zyl shared her aspirations for the next chapter in an interview with SABC Sport.

As the joint Spar Grand Prix series champion alongside Rene Kalmer and Tadu Nare of Ethiopia, she is determined to address unfinished business in the series next year.

Among her ambitious plans is the completion of an Olympic Marathon, a goal she qualified for following her impressive victory at the Soweto Marathon, which was 33-second shot of matching her own record in the marathon.

“I’ve clinched victory at the Soweto Marathon four times, and returning to this event is always special for me. This year posed significant challenges, marking one of the toughest in my running career. Dealing with a persistent stress fracture early in the year was particularly frustrating, but I’m relieved to share that it has finally healed.  Looking ahead, there is a lot on my plate for the upcoming year, kicking off with the Spar series and gearing up for the Olympic Games in Paris. My focus is on making it to the SA final, and I’m eager to make up for lost time,” said Van Zyl.

Due to the injury, Van Zyl was unable to participate in the Two Oceans Marathon in April, a race where she secured second place in 2022.

Regrettably, she had to sit out this year’s edition.  She missed three Grand Prix races.

“I aspire to finish an Olympic Marathon, having withdrawn from three in the past due to injuries. The upcoming year presents a chance for me to make a comeback at the Two Oceans and enhance my standing in the Spar Ladies competition,” Van Zyl concluded.