Tadu Nare edges closer to third consecutive Spar Grand Prix Series title

Nare faced a moment of uncertainty but emerged triumphant with a time of 32:28, as compatriot Gebre Salem secured second place in 32:51, while Ugandan debutant Docus Ajok came in an impressive third place in 33:25. 

Despite her dominance, the Nedbank Running Club athlete insisted it wasn't her best race as she lamented her time, which was lower than she had anticipated.

"To be honest, it was tough for me. First of all, it was too cold and I tried so hard to get warm, even in the beginning, but the weather was so cold that my body couldn't get warm," said Nare.

"All in all, I'm glad that it turned out to be a positive race and I came first, which I'm happy about. When it comes to the time, I'm not satisfied with the time that I ran.

"But, considering the weather and the ups and downs of the hills and the challenges, I'm not going to be so hard on myself, but I wanted to actually improve my time, which I didn't so I'm not very happy about that."

South African star Glenrose Xaba finished fifth in a time of 36:34, missing out on the podium for the first time this year.

Nare now stands on the verge of becoming a three-time Grand Prix series champion, alongside Rene Kalmer and Irvette van Zyl, with victory in Tshwane next month all she needs, before a top five finish in the Joburg leg only but solidifying his position.