Sub 30 minute performer Diana Chepkorir to lineup at Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

After bringing former 10km world record holder Yalemzerf Yehualaw of Ethiopia to race in South Africa for the first time at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K, organizers of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series have announced another exciting addition to the 2024 lineup. Kenya’s Diana Chepkorir, a sub-30-minute 10km performer, will make her South African debut at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K on Sunday, 7 April.

"I decided to come to South Africa because I heard that fast times can be run there. I heard about the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series and have seen the results online. First of all, I heard that South Africa is a nice place to be. Secondly that the organisation is very welcoming and last, but not least, that it has fast races and as I am trying to always improve myself, I am happy to come and give it a try on 7th April," she explained.

Chepkorir enjoying a training run in Kenya ahead of Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series debut. Photo Credit: Supplied.

Chepkorir heads to ‘The Friendly City’ in the shape of her life after setting a jaw-dropping 29:56 lifetime best at the FACSA Castellón 10K in February during what was her first official 10km road race outside of Kenya. Her transition from a steeplechaser to a road runner is bearing fruit and the Kenyan is aiming to go even faster at the first Absa RUN YOUR CITY

Series race of 2024.

"I am still very happy that I could run my first race outside of Kenya below 30 minutes. Recovery was good and I was immediately motivated to continue my training. I want to run fast again, depending on the day. But I am feeling well and want to still make use of that shape," she said.

Meyer says inviting Chepkorir to the Absa GQEBERHA 10K will inspire local athletes and elevates the brand of South African sport. Photo Credit: Rogan Ward.

Stillwater Sports' Managing Director and Founder of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, Michael Meyer, says the participation of athletes like Yalemzerf Yehualaw and Diana Chepkorir in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series as beneficial, not just for road running, but for elevating the profile of South African sport as a whole.

"We are thrilled to celebrate Diana Chepkorir’s SA debut at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K in 2024. Her participation adds an exciting dynamic to the race and underscores our commitment to bringing top talent to South Africa. Athletes like Chepkorir not only inspire us with their performances but also help elevate the standard of competition, which is crucial for the growth of the sport in our country. We look forward to seeing her compete and wish her the best of luck on race day."