Glenrose Xaba’s year has been nothing short of extraordinary, earning her the title of 2024 gsport Newsmaker of the Year. This recognition acknowledges not only her athletic prowess but also the positive impact she has made in the world of sport.
Reflecting on this honour, Xaba shared, “2024 gsport Newsmaker of the Year means a lot to me because I have been acknowledged and recognised as one of the women in sports who brings change to sport.”
Her journey to success has been marked by incredible milestones, and one of the highlights of her year was her debut at the Cape Town Marathon.
“The biggest highlight of the year would be my national records,” Xaba explains, looking back on the moment that solidified her place in South African athletics.
“My main one is the Cape Town Marathon—it was my debut, where I ran a course record and a national record as well.”
2024 gsport Newsmaker of the Year, Glenrose Xaba
But beyond the track, Xaba remains deeply connected to her family, especially her grandmother. “My grandmother’s health is always a worry for me. She means the world to me, so whenever she is healthy and happy, I am happy too,” she shared, highlighting the importance of family support in her journey.
As a role model and leader in women’s sport, Xaba believes in the power of hard work, discipline, and self-belief. “Work hard, be disciplined, believe in yourself, and never stop dreaming big,” she advises aspiring athletes. These words reflect her own approach to training and competition, where excellence is not just a goal, but a mindset.
Looking ahead, Xaba is already focused on her goals for 2025, ready to take her training to the next level. “For 2025, I need to start where I finished. We started a base program focusing on more mileage,” she shared, outlining her plan for continued growth and success in her athletic career.
Xaba credits much of her success to the mentorship and support of her coaches, particularly Caster Semenya and Violet Semenya.
“My mentor, Caster Semenya, inspires me because she shows us as Black women to never be defined by our background or situation.”
“They have contributed a lot because they play such a big role in my life. Coach Caster provides mentorship, and Coach Violet, before being a coach, is like the sister I never had. She is like family and is always there for me on and off the track.”
With her steely determination and the guidance of those who support her, Glenrose Xaba continues to break barriers, inspire the next generation, and lead the charge for women in sport.
Main Photo Caption: Glenrose Xaba’s year has been nothing short of extraordinary, earning her the title of 2024 gsport Newsmaker of the Year. This recognition acknowledges not only her athletic prowess but also the positive impact she has made in the world of sport. Photo: Rebecca Hearfield (c) gsport
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