The Nedbank Running Club is set to make a powerful impact at the upcoming SPAR Women’s Challenge 10km, with a strong team of elite female contenders ready to compete for podium positions. Featuring a mix of experienced local talent and international stars, the team is primed for an exciting race.
South African Hopefuls
Leading the local charge is Anel Terblanche, who boasts a personal best of 35:27 over 10km, set in Cape Town in 2021. Terblanche has already started 2025 in strong form, securing 2nd place at the Spartan Harriers Firgrove Challenge 10km in 37:53. She will look to improve on her previous SPAR Women’s Challenge performances, where she finished 11th in Cape Town (2024) and Pietermaritzburg (2021).
Also representing South Africa is Deanne Laubscher, a long distance athlete who delivered an impressive 2:53:51 finish at the 2025 Balwin Sports Peninsula Marathon, securing 2nd place. While she does not have a recorded 10km PB, Laubscher’s endurance strength will make her a formidable competitor.
International Contenders
Nedbank Running Club also features top Ethiopian and Kenyan athletes, including Meseret Fita, who has a blistering 10km best of 32:15, set in Addis Ababa in 2024. Fita will be a key challenger in the elite field and a strong podium contender.
Another standout is Selam Fente Gebre, one of the most consistent performers in the SPAR Women’s Challenge Grand Prix Series. With a 10km PB of 31:42 set in Gqeberha in 2024, Gebre has finished in the top three in multiple SPAR Women’s Challenge races over the past three years. Her stellar 2023 season saw her claim 2nd place in Durban (31:37), Gqeberha (31:53), Tshwane (33:49), and Cape Town (33:42), making her a strong favorite for a podium finish once again.
Joining the squad is Fridah Ndinda from Kenya, who clocked an impressive 10km PB of 32:25 in Durban in 2024. She is expected to be a fierce competitor in the field.
Ethiopia’s Diniya Kedir Abaraya is another strong contender, with a 10km PB of 32:03 set in Durban in 2023. She placed 2nd in the 2024 SPAR Grand Prix Cape Town race, running 32:24, showcasing her consistency and podium potential.
Eyes on the Podium
With a mix of experienced local runners and elite international talent, the Nedbank Running Club is ready to deliver a stellar performance at this esteemed event. Fans can expect a thrilling race as these athletes battle it out for top honors in one of South Africa’s most competitive 10km races.