ONE of South Africa’s top road runners, Tayla Kavanagh, aims to give her best performance when she lines up in Sunday’s Absa Run Your City Durban 10km.

The 25-year-old spoke confidently at the Absa Run Your City Durban press conference, saying she is excited to test herself against a strong international field of runners on home soil.

“There are some really fast international women I will be competing against, and I am really excited to see what we as South Africans can do,” she said.

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Kavanagh said her goal is to execute her race plan to the best of her ability rather than focus on a specific finishing time.

“I can’t really tell you an exact time, but I know I’m going to give my best effort and see how fast I can run.”

As the leading South African woman in the elite field, Kavanagh acknowledged that there will be added attention on her, but she is determined not to let that become added pressure.

“It is always super special to cross that line, and having internationals is always nice because they help you run faster. But it’s also nice when you can be the top South African because that is special for you, you’re the best in the country.

“It would be nice to be the first South African over the line on Sunday and be pulled along by the international girls. So I’m looking forward to that.”

Enjoying the shorter distances

When asked why she continues to focus on shorter distances, Kavanagh smiled and explained that, at this stage of her career, the 5km and 10km remain her strongest events.

“Focusing on the 5km and 10km is what I feel is working for me right now. However, I do feel that in the near future I’m going to move up to the half marathon, Comrades, and potentially the longer ultras later on in life.

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“But for me, right now, I’m just really enjoying the shorter distances, having a lot of fun with them. I’m trusting the process and I’m getting some good results.

“I think when you’re doing well at something, it’s super important to stick with it and just enjoy the process.”

The former St Mary’s DSG learner said running has been part of her life from a very young age and continues to bring her happiness.

“Lacing up my shoes every morning has always been something that brings me so much joy. I get a lot of peace and joy from running in the early mornings and watching the lovely sunrises.

“Being out there is really peaceful and I enjoy it a lot. Running has always been a big part of my life and I’ve always really enjoyed it. I think it will always be a special part of my day when I get to go out there and run every morning,” she said with a beaming smile.

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