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Women's Month got off to a flying start in Durban on Sunday (2 August), with Lesotho's Neheng Khatala claiming her first-ever Totalsports Women's Race Durban title in an impressive 32:06.
The national record holder crossed the finish line ahead of Emma Pallant-Browne of Great Britain (32:45), while Kenya's Fridah Ndinda secured third place in 33:15 after a closely contested race along Durban's scenic beachfront.
Speaking after the race, an elated Khatala said the victory had been a long time coming:
"I'm so excited to be part of the race today. It's been a good year for me. The route is fast, but the wind made it difficult to push the pace. The competition was very strong, so we stayed together for much of the race. Around the 5km mark, I knew I was going to win."
The victory carried extra significance for Khatala, who previously set her Lesotho national record in Durban.
"Crossing the finish line first means a lot to me. Durban is where I set my national record. I missed it today, but without the wind I think I could have run faster. I love this race. The organisers take great care of us, and everything is exceptionally well organised."
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Thousands celebrate Women's Month
While the elite athletes battled it out at the front of the field, thousands of women of all ages and fitness levels filled Durban's streets, taking part in either the 5km or 10km events alongside friends and family.
The atmosphere was boosted by live performances from South African music star Busiswa, creating a festival-like celebration after runners crossed the finish line at Suncoast.
Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports, says Durban once again delivered an unforgettable race day:
"The Totalsports Women's Race Durban once again delivered on every level. We witnessed impressive performances from our elite athletes, while thousands of women took to the streets alongside family and friends to celebrate the start of Women's Month in a truly uplifting atmosphere."
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Top 10 Elite women
- Neheng Khatala (Lesotho) – 32:06
- Emma Pallant-Browne (Great Britain) – 32:45
- Fridah Ndinda (Kenya) – 33:15
- Ntsoaki Molahloe (South Africa) – 33:34
- Agnes Mwaghui (Tanzania) – 33:44
- Malineo Mahloko (South Africa) – 36:21
- Janie Grundling (South Africa) – 37:38
- Slindile Biyela (South Africa) – 40:10
- Zama Mokoena (South Africa) – 40:50
- Shani Silver (South Africa) – 40:58
The Totalsports Women's Race now heads to Cape Town on Sunday, 9 August, before concluding in Johannesburg on Sunday, 16 August.
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