World leader Brenda Jepchirchir set for South African debut at Gqeberha 10K

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY series continues its legacy of bringing world-class athletes to South Africa to give local runners a taste of international competition.

Organised by Stillwater Sports, the popular 10km series that takes place in five of the country’s biggest cities has established itself as an avenue for local athletes to run their best times, aided by high-class competition from across the continent.

Over the years, big names such as Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei and Genzebe Dibaba of Ethiopia have raced on South African soil as the series built its reputation as the continent’s premier 10km event.

Ahead of the season-opening race in the Windy City of Gqeberha next month, it was announced that US-based South African runner Adriaan Wildschutt would be coming back home to defend the title he won, on debut, in a then national record-breaking time last year.

The series has also added a fantastic athlete to the line-up in the form of world leader Brenda Jepchirchir, who is sure to elevate the standard of a competition that has seen local athlete Glenrose Xaba dominating.

Jepchirchir recently stunned the running world with her incredible performance at the Valencia 10K in January. The Kenyan clocked a lightning-fast 29:25 to beat a stellar field in the Spanish city. It was a performance that has made the 20-year-old a precious commodity for 10km race organisers around the world.

The fact that she chose to run in Gqeberha is a feather in the cap of Stillwater Sport's managing director and series founder Michael Meyer, who could not hide his excitement at the coup.

“To have the current world No 1, fresh off a sensational win in Valencia, choose to make her South African debut at our event speaks volumes about the stature of the RUN YOUR CITY Series," Meyer said. "Brenda’s presence raises the bar once again and guarantees an exciting, world-class race for both elite and recreational runners on the streets of Nelson Mandela Bay.”

The athlete herself is eagerly anticipating the race: “I’ve heard great things about the Gqeberha 10K.

"The course is known for being fast, the organisation is excellent, and the competition is strong. I’m excited to experience racing in South Africa and to be part of such a high-energy event.”

The expectation is that she will run her second-ever sub-30-minute time in Gqeberha and pull the likes of Xaba with her towards a fast time.

“Valencia is such a competitive race, so winning there and breaking 30 minutes for the first time meant a lot,” Jepchirchir explained.

“The biggest factor has been consistency. Over the last six months, I’ve been able to train well, stay healthy, and really build momentum.

"On March 1, the goal is to put together a strong race, compete well, and see what time is possible. If conditions are right, I’d love to run fast again, but the focus must also be on execution and racing smart,” Jepchirchir concluded.