Tayla Kavanagh ready to make mark in Spar Women’s 10km Challenge

The Hollywood Athletics Club athlete, who is the reigning national 5km champion, will not compete in all five races due to scheduling conflicts but is eager to make an impact in the ones she enters.

“I’m excited for the Spar 10km race as it’s a step towards building up to the half-marathon. I believe the 10km will be beneficial for my 21km races," said Kavanagh.

"I’ll take part in the first race in Cape Town and see what I can learn from it. However, I don’t consider myself a contender for the win just yet.

"People often ask me why I choose certain races over others, but it all comes down to my schedule. I select my races carefully, especially if I have a bigger event coming up.

"There’s an opening for the first race in Cape Town this month, so I’ve decided to take it. I plan to participate in as many Spar races as possible."

The 23-year-old is also leaning on the wisdom and experience of club mates Gerda Steyn and Glenrose Xaba.

"I’m learning a lot from my new club mate, Gerda Steyn. She motivates me to run fast times and aim for titles. Over time, I hope to contend for the Spar Grand Prix series," she added.

"This year, my focus is on learning from Glenrose Xaba, who is one of my biggest inspirations. I’m excited to see what Cape Town has in store for me and will take it step by step, but yes, I’m ready for the Spar race."

The series will see runners compete across five cities—Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane, Gqeberha, and Johannesburg. The overall winner on points will receive a brand-new car and R200,000, while the top South African athlete will earn an additional R100,000.

Several elite local runners, including Xaba, Kesa Molotsane, and the Phalula twins, Lebo and Lebogang, have also confirmed their participation. 

With the presence of strong Kenyan and Ethiopian athletes, the competition is expected to be intense.

“The Kenyan and Ethiopian runners will definitely push us to achieve fast times. I just hope the weather cooperates, as last year we had heavy rain and cold conditions," Kavanagh concluded.

READ: Gerda Steyn gears up for the Two Oceans Marathon