Mountain Running
5 unforgettable South African trail running races
There are races you run to say you have, & then there are those you run for other reasons altogether
The Otter
© Kelvin Trautman/Nikon
Race: Otter Trail Run
Distance: 42km, 1 day
What you'll remember: The diversity of scenic beauty including rocky beaches, sandy beaches, waterfalls, massive seaside cliffs, ancient forests, protea studded fynbos, surging rivers; but also the aching climbs, thrilling descents, and the swim across the Bloukrans River.
Salomon Skyrun
© Kelvin Trautman/Nikon
Race: Skyrun
Distance: 65km, 100km, 1 day
What you'll remember: The distinct lack of any sign of human civilisation wherever you look, traversing a rugged and seemingly endless mountain ridgeline, bearded vultures, the self navigation and self supported challenges, being on your feet from anywhere between 13hrs to 36hrs. That, and the finish line.
Richtersveld Wildrun
© Kelvin Trautman/Nikon
Race: Richtersveld Wildrun
Distance: 150km, over 4 days
What you'll remember: The searing temps, craggy peaks, house-sized boulders, and array of jaw-droppingly bizzare desert fauna and flora that make the Richtersveld one of the most biodiverse deserts in the world.
Mweni Marathon
© Kelvin Trautman/Nikon
Race: Mweni Marathon
Distance: 38km, 1 day
What you'll remember: The never ending vista from the very top of the Drakensberg, Mweni's many rocky pinnacles, spires and cathedrals that surround and dwarf you, the waterfalls, filling your water bottles from the bubbling rivers, and even snow (if you're unlucky).
Red Bull LionHeart
© Kolesky/Nikon/Red Bull Content Pool
Race: Red Bull LionHeart
Distance: 3,7km
What you'll remember: The competitiveness of a knock out format, yet also the camaraderie, the crowd support, the expansive views of the city bowl and atlantic seaboard (if you have time), the unavoidable leg burn
