Ethiopia’s Selam Gebre delivers dominant performance at Totalsports Women’s Race Joburg

Ethiopian Selam Gebre beat out a strong field to win the Totalsports Women’s Race in a time of 33 minutes 27 seconds (33:27), held at Marks Park, Emmarentia, on Sunday.

Neheng Khatala (Lesotho) came in second, while Debrah Cherotich (Kenya) finished third.

“I’m tired from my travels and could feel it in my legs this morning,” said Gebre after the race.

“There was one runner with me for a big part of the race. I just had to keep moving. The runner got tired and dropped off. I kept going. The course was tough. I am very happy to be first today. It motivates me for my next event.”

Khatala, Lesotho’s 10km National Record holder, competed in all three Totalsports Women’s Races – Durban, Cape Town, and Johannesburg – in 2025.

Khatala’s Triumphant Return: Conquering All Three Totalsports Women’s Races in 2025

Khatala said she’s always happy to be part of the race.

“I’m very excited with my second position today. This was my second time at the Joburg race,” said Khatala.

“Last year I had flu and couldn’t finish, so I am very proud of myself. I executed the race very well. For the first time I did all three races. I am so proud of myself. I hope to do it next year again.”

The first South African to cross the finish line, Karabo Mailula claimed fourth place in a time of 35:09. 

“It feels great to represent South Africa well,” said Mailula.

“The start was fine. I didn’t know the course, but my teammate told me that the course is going to be difficult. I knew it because Jozi is always difficult.

“I was aiming for a better time, but I think that I have improved. I am happy with the result, position four, it’s fine for me."

IOL Sport