However, Mare Dibaba has struggled with form and fitness in recent years, failing to finish several races due to injury. She will be aiming to recapture her best form at the upcoming Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.
With the likes of Kimetto, Desiso, and Dibaba in the field, the race promises to be a showcase of marathon talent and a preview of what is to come as Cape Town prepares to join the ranks of the Abbott’s Marathon Majors in 2026.
For Kimetto, the race represents a chance to make a comeback after a period of injury and inconsistency. The former world record holder will be looking to recapture the form that made him one of the top marathoners in the world.
Lelisa Desiso, with his impressive marathon record and recent successes, will be looking to add another victory to his name at the SCTM. The Ethiopian athlete has proven himself on the world stage and will be a strong contender for the title.
As for Mare Dibaba, the Ethiopian runner will be looking to overcome her recent struggles and return to the form that saw her become a world champion. With her talent and determination, Dibaba has the potential to once again reach the top of the podium.
Overall, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon promises to be an exciting and competitive event, with some of the biggest names in marathon running set to compete. Fans can look forward to a thrilling race and the opportunity to see these elite athletes in action.
As the countdown to the race begins, anticipation is building for what is sure to be a memorable event in the world of distance running.
They are so dedicated and focused on their goals. They are not afraid to put in the work and make sacrifices to achieve their dreams. I have no doubt that we will see some incredible performances from them in the near future.”
Ramaala’s sentiment is shared by many in the South African running community, who are eagerly anticipating the upcoming Sanlam Cape Town Marathon. With such a strong field of athletes, both local and international, the race is sure to be a thrilling and competitive event.
The presence of athletes like Mare Dibaba, Adane Kebede Gebre, Tsige Haileslase, Cian Oldknow, and Glenrose Xaba adds an exciting element to the race. These runners have proven themselves on the global stage and will undoubtedly put on a show for the spectators in Cape Town.
For Cian Oldknow, the race represents an opportunity to further establish herself as a top marathon runner and potentially break the course record. Her dedication to the sport and her focus on the process of running are admirable qualities that will serve her well in the race.
Glenrose Xaba’s marathon debut adds an element of unpredictability to the women’s race. After her impressive performances in shorter distances, many are eager to see how she will fare in her first marathon. Her rivalry with Oldknow promises to be a highlight of the event.
Overall, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon promises to be a showcase of talent and determination. With a mix of seasoned veterans and up-and-coming stars, the race is sure to provide plenty of excitement and drama. Fans of the sport can look forward to a thrilling day of racing and a glimpse of the future of South African distance running. Building Confidence and Performance: The Key to Success in Racing
In the world of long-distance running, the east Africans have long dominated the sport, setting records and winning races with seemingly effortless ease. For many South African runners, the thought of competing against these elite athletes can be daunting. However, there is a growing belief that with the right support and confidence, South African runners can also achieve great things on the international stage.
One way to boost the confidence and performance of South African runners is by providing them with a platform to showcase their talents on home soil. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is one such event that offers a high-profile race with good prize money, an international field of strong elites, and the best runners from South Africa. This kind of stage not only gives athletes the opportunity to compete at a world-class level but also allows them to receive the support and love of their own people.
Elite runner Hendrick Ramaala emphasizes the importance of home support in boosting confidence and performance. He notes that the love and encouragement from local supporters can make a significant difference in an athlete’s mindset and motivation. When competing abroad, athletes can sometimes feel like mere performers, but when running in front of their own fans, they feel a deeper connection and sense of purpose.
Ramaala also stresses the need for mental preparation and self-belief in order to succeed in big races. He points to the east Africans as an example of a culture that breeds confidence and belief in their own abilities. South African runners can learn from this mindset and work towards establishing a similar culture of self-belief within their own ranks.
Having role models and champions to look up to can also inspire younger runners to strive for greatness. By showcasing the achievements of top athletes, the next generation can set their sights on similar levels of success. However, Ramaala emphasizes that the most important thing is to instill a love for the sport in young athletes, ensuring that they are passionate and dedicated to their training and competition.
In conclusion, by providing a platform for South African runners to compete on home soil, fostering a culture of self-belief and mental preparation, and showcasing the achievements of top athletes, the country can pave the way for future success in long-distance running. With the right support and encouragement, South African runners can indeed achieve amazing things and compete with the best in the world.