The Totalsports Women’s Race in Durban is set to feature its most competitive lineup yet on Sunday, 04 August 2024. Local favorite Tayla Kavanagh will go head-to-head with formidable opponents such as Ethiopia’s Debash Desta and Selam Gebre, along with Kenya’s Marion Chepkoech.
"The fact that the Totalsports Women’s Race is a women’s-only event is fantastic as it highlights women’s performances and elevates the standard of women’s athletics,” says Kavanagh. “I chose to enter this year because I love racing in my home city. It’s always a wonderful way to celebrate Women’s Month, sharing the road with fellow female runners who all have a passion for running. I look forward to seeing what we can all achieve on the day. I expect a fun, competitive morning out on the road, lining up with a strong field. It's a special moment as we paint the streets of Durban pink and celebrate women. My goal is to stick to my race plan and execute a good race."
Though only 23 years old, Kavanagh boasts an impressive personal best of 32:10 for the 10km.
Although Debash Desta is no stranger to South Africa, having placed 2nd at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K in 2024, and 1st at both the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K in 2023, this will be her first time lining up at the Totalsports Women’s Race.
With an impressive 10km PB of 30:58, Desta is a race favourite. “One of the reasons I entered the Totalsports Women’s Race is because of the respect that it shows towards women,” admits Desta. “I am proud that such competitions are organized for women, and I have the opportunity to be part of it. Women-only events always bring good motivation and morale. I look forward to a good race and to running a strong time. My plan is to be a strong competitor and to be on the podium on race day.”
Selam Gebre shares Desta’s sentiments and is proud to take part in a race dedicated to women. “It’s inspiring to participate in an event that honors women, and I am happy to be part of this race,” says Gebre who boasts at 31:42 PB in the 10km. “I aim to run under 31 minutes and am looking forward to a very fast race. My message to all women is to use this opportunity to run fast and honor women.”
Making her racing debut in South Africa, Chepkoech is eager to secure an impressive time in her first 10km race. “I entered the Totalsports Women’s Race to improve my time and gain experience running with other women,” says Chepkoech. “I look forward to the sense of community among participants, the positive and empowering atmosphere, and the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause.”
In closing, Chepkoech shares this message with runners: “You are powerful, resilient, and inspiring women. By taking part in this race, you are not only challenging yourself physically but also standing in solidarity with women everywhere. Your participation helps raise awareness for important causes like women’s health and gender equality. Keep running, keep inspiring, and keep shining.”
Additional athletes to look out for at the Totalsports Women’s Race in Durban includes Ethiopia’s Diniya Abaraya, with a 10km personal best of 32:03, and Ebste Btaw, with a 10km personal best of 32:12.
EVENT INFORMATION: 2024 Totalsports Women’s Race
ENTER: www.totalsportswomensrace.co.za, www.webtickets.co.za or any Pick ‘n Pay store nationwide.
CHARITY SUPPORT: The Totalsports Women’s Race proudly supports PinkDrive. When registering online for the event, runners have the option to support PinkDrive by donating to the cause. PinkDrive will offer free clinical breast examinations in each city, along with the opportunity to consult with a PinkDrive nurse for general medical advice. Runners can also visit PinkDrive’s “Shop4Cancer” at each event, where they can deck themselves out in pink gear to show their support for this worthy cause and run with pride. For more information on PinkDrive visit www.pinkdrive.org
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For more information on PinkDrive visit www.pinkdrive.org For further information on the Totalsports Women’s Race visit www.totalsportswomensrace.co.za
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