THE gap between Glenrose Xaba and Kesa Molotsane in the Spar 10km Grand Prix Series log table is massive.
Molotsane, who runs in the KMPG colours, has collected 137 points to top the standings with one race to go, while Xaba of Boxer Stores running club is in fifth place with 80 points.
For much of the season Xaba tried her best to beat her friend Molotsane, but didn’t get anywhere near the runaway leader.
But it was a different story at the Athletics SA (ASA) Cross Country Championships in Potchefstroom, in North West, last week.
Xaba, who is coached by Michael “Sponge” Seme at the University of Pretoria, piped Molotsane to the 10km ladies title in a thrilling race.
Her amazing sprint in the last 500m made the difference as she finally finished ahead of Molotsane.
She didn’t only become a champion on that day, she finished ahead of her friend, something she couldn’t achieve the whole season.
Xaba, who is the training partner of Stephen Mokoka and Sikhumbuzo Seme, was left wondering why she didn’t produce the same fighting spirit in the Grand Prix Series.
In the build-up to the Cross Country event, Molotsane did remind Xaba that she could do better, and that’s what she did. The feeling of winning that race still hasn’t sunk in for Xaba.
Said Xaba: “It’s been a difficult year for me. To end it with an important victory like this is unbelievable. I tried everything to beat Kesa in the Spar Grand Prix Series, but I battled throughout.
“But beating her is something special and it’s a consolation for the poor season I’ve had.”
Molotsane is poised to be crowned the Grand Prix champion on 8 October in the Joburg leg.
But Xaba wants to finish the series on a high note.
She said: “It’s important to try to win the race and end my season with a bang.
“Kesa told me I could do better and I’m hoping to improve from now on. Mokoka is also a big help in training.”
