Despite battling a nagging foot injury that forced her to miss the opening rounds of the Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) cross-country season, Kate van Jaarsveld showed she has lost little of her competitive edge.

The Nedbank Running Club athlete made an encouraging return at the fourth CGA cross-country league meeting on June 20, finishing second in the sub-veteran women’s 4km race in 16:36, just 11 seconds behind the winner.

Although she is not fully recovered and admits every race carries the risk of aggravating her plantar fasciitis, Van Jaarsveld’s immediate priority is to complete the required league races and provincial championships to qualify for the Athletics South Africa (ASA) Cross Country Championships.

The experienced runner revealed the injury has taken a significant physical and mental toll.

“I’m very unfit at the moment. I’ve been cycling to try and maintain my fitness, but it’s not the same as running. I’ve tried running here and there, but it’s just not enough. You take your health for granted until you no longer have it,” she said.

Despite the setback, Van Jaarsveld was pleased with her solid performance in her comeback race.
“It was one of those routine performances where, despite everything that’s happening, I could still show what I’m capable of.”

Also Read: Van Jaarsveld battles to bronze at nationals

Her hopes for the remainder of the season hinge on her recovery.

“If everything works out, I’m hoping to tick off the races I need to qualify. Hopefully my foot comes right and I can get six to eight weeks of proper training before nationals. I’m trying to maintain a base level of fitness so that I’m ready if the injury improves.”

Watching rivals compete while she has been sidelined has tested her patience.

“It’s frustrating. I’m happy for everyone doing well, but I’m very competitive. This is a challenge and I’m determined to overcome it and get back to running as soon as possible.”

Interestingly, Van Jaarsveld said she felt unusually relaxed before her return, having placed no expectations on herself.

“I wasn’t nervous because I wasn’t expecting to finish near the front. To finish second and be so close to first was encouraging. A few more weeks of training and I think I could be right up there.”

With her competitive fire still burning, Van Jaarsveld will hope her body cooperates as she chases a place at the national championships.

Also Read: Van Jaarsveld settles for silver at CGA champs