How Glenrose Xaba almost quit athletics due to injuries and poor form

The 30-year-old Boxer Running Club athlete was urged by her coach, Caster Semenya, and manager, Violet Semenya, to give her career another shot in 2021.

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At the time, Xaba was struggling with injury setbacks and failing to reach the podium, leading her to part ways with her previous coach, Michael Seme, out of frustration. However, after meeting Semenya and beginning their collaboration, Xaba’s fortunes changed. She has since shattered two national records in the marathon (42.2km) and 10km, securing over ten race victories, including a record-breaking debut at the Cape Town Marathon. 

There, she set both the course and national record, earning nearly a million rand. This year alone, Xaba has amassed nearly R2 million in earnings from various competitions.

''That time when I was battling with many injuries, I was at a point where I wanted to give up on athletics. Violet said to me , don't give - you saw Caster going through many challenges but she didn't give up. Just continue to train and don't give up and wait for God's timing,'' said Xaba.

Xaba shared with the national broadcaster that she used to be quite emotional, often feeling sorry for herself, until Semenya advised her to toughen up and stop dwelling on her difficulties.

''I can say that, even Caster told me to stop crying like a baby. She said, you need to be tough in this, you have a talent and you need to use it,'' added Xaba.

Xaba also sought therapy and attended Power to Health, a program that supports athletes with various challenges, helping them regain focus and get back on track with their sports.

Xaba shared with the national broadcaster how Power to Health played a key role in her recovery, encouraging other athletes facing injuries, form issues, or self-esteem challenges to seek their support.

''Because they use oxygen and it can heal the inside wounds, they also have an ozone to help with speedy recovery. I can say now to them, thank you. I am top now because of them,'' she expressed.

Xaba credits Masai, a training club led by Semenya, for helping her through the tough times, expressing deep gratitude to the athletics icon for her support.