Glenrose Xaba completes double at ASA Championships

Enduring sweltering heat, Xaba largely ran unchallenged throughout the race, with her competitor Kabelo Mabilo collapsing and experienced rival Kesa Molotsane withdrawing due to the extreme weather conditions.

Xaba crossed the finish line in 32:56:29 seconds, clinching the gold medal in the 10 000m event, with Cacisile Sosibo securing silver in 36:03:70, and Banele Mabizela taking third place in 41:16:44. Earlier in the competition, Xaba also claimed the victory in the 5000m event on Thursday.

"I can be very happy if I can have someone that we can push together, I think we can do much better. Kenyans are running together and help each other that's why they're running good times and fast times because they're used to running together and they help each other when it comes to the race and they're many. Us, we are few and our girls I think are scared to go very fast from the beginning," Xaba said.

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Xaba, victorious in both the 10 000m and 5000m events at the national championships, attributed her success to the guidance of her coach, Caster Semenya, and her own diligent efforts.

This marked her first win in the 5000m, complementing her repeat triumph in the 10 000m.

Her achievement underscores her dominance, as she holds titles in the national 10km and 21km races.

"I feel happy, it shows that if you believe in yourself and work hard and dedicate yourself and listen to your coach, what she  says and follow the programme you do much better."