Faith Cherono, aiming for a sub-30 personal best, is the favourite to win the Absa Run Your City Cape Town 10k after Brenda Jepchirchir’s absence, with hopes of setting an SA All-Comers record and the first sub-30 women’s 10k on African soil. Picture: Action Photo
Image: Action Photo
Kenya’s Faith Cherono may just be the athlete to beat at the Absa Run Your City Cape Town 10k on Sunday.
Cherono came second in her first appearance in the Absa Run Your City Gqeberha on March 1, as her compatriot Brenda Jepchirchir.
Cherono clocked 30:44 on that occasion, to claim the runner-up spot after Jepchirchir crossed the line 19 seconds ahead.
Jepchirchir is not running this weekend, so it means Cherono will be the favourite.
“It was a good experience and a nice event,” said Cherono when asked about her experience so far in the SA road race series.
“I was happy to join South African athletes and also athletes from all around the world. I felt at home - welcomed, supported.”
With a personal best of 30:06 set in January in Valencia, there’s every chance that she could go sub-30 in the Mother City.
“Training is going well. No issues. I am motivated and building one brick at a time. I will miss Brenda, who is very strong. So I hope to have other strong competitors to help and share the load.”
If the 27-year-old Cherono does manage to dip under the half-hour mark, it would be an SA All-Comers record and the first sub-30 women’s 10k on African soil.
“I am aiming to run a PB and will do my best to push to the limit. I am more interested in running a fast time than trying to win the race or make the podium. My plan is to focus on the time and I’m willing to take the risk.”