Njoki targets first sub 30:30 on SA Soil at Totalsports Women's Race Durban

After dominating last year's race, when she romped to a 31:00 victory, Kenya's Christine Njoki will return to Durban this Sunday, 03 August 2025, as she sets her sights on defending her title at one of South Africa's most iconic Women's Month celebrations, the Totalsports Women's Race.

Christine Njoki in action at the Totalsports Women's Race Durban in 2024. Photo Credit: Anthony Grote.

"My experience at the Totalsports Women's Race Durban was amazing - there was incredible energy from both the runners and the organisers," says Njoki. "I'm coming back because of the love and support from the fans, the race organisers, and of course, the opportunity to defend my title. I always look forward to connecting with fellow athletes, making new friends, and enjoying a great race."

Njoki adds that the Totalsports Women's Race holds a special place because of the meaningful impact it has on women. "Not only does the event celebrate women's passion and hard work, but it also acknowledges the unique challenges we face. It's truly an honour to compete in such an empowering race."

Njoki celebrates victory at the 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K in a personal best 30:37. Photo Credit: Anthony Grote.

Taking on the likes of her compatriot Jane Ghati Chacha who won the Absa RUN OYUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K in April, Neheng Khatala of Lesotho who took third (32:02) in the same event last year and former SA 10km champion Tayla Kavanagh, Njoki will not have it all her own way. When asked about the R1 000 000 incentive for the first female athlete to break the Women’s Only 10km World Record (29:27) at the Totalsports Women's Race Durban, Njoki who is the holder of a 30:37 which she produced on her way to winning the 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K, said it is a wonderful opportunity for African women.

"It's an incredibly motivating incentive. Every woman lining up in Durban will give her best to challenge the world record. It's a powerful statement that women are valued and celebrated in society through the Totalsports Women's Race. My primary goal will be to improve on my previous time. If I feel strong after the halfway mark, I'll definitely push to challenge the world record."