The southern section of this 180-million-year-old range is the perfect setting for an event pitching itself as a true mountain running race. Just the name indicates you're in for dramatic scenery, whether you call them the Drakensberg (Afrikaans for 'Dragon Mountain') or uKhahlambha (Zulu for 'Barrier of Spears'). The range's reputation as a hiker's paradise is known throughout the world.
And besides some of southern Africa's most famous geographical landmarks, the Drakensberg is home to over 30 000 San and Bushman paintings; as a result, a large part of it is a World Heritage Site. If ever there was a place designed to challenge the Alpine peaks of France and Switzerland for pure majesty, the Drakensberg is it.
So when the spectacularly-named Spurg Flemington (a dairy farmer and trail runner, from the nearby town of Underberg) decided to follow his passions and start a mountain-running event, there was plenty to work with right on his doorstep. For a start, the Giant's Cup Trail - a 62km, five-day hike - was already an established route; and with its glorious views, grassy plains, majestic valleys and beautiful streams and pools, it was an obvious choice for an ultra-trail run.
Flemington's an enthusiastic former Ironman triathlete turned trail fanatic; he's completed multiple events including the tough SkyRun. He immediately contacted Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, who run the area, to work towards setting up the hiking route as a trail run.
This story is from the March/April 2023 edition of Runner's World SA.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March/April 2023 edition of Runner's World SA.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
LONGOVERDUE PRAISE FOR THE RUNNING SINGLET
In the last decade, the running singlet once reserved for amateur competitors and professional athletes - has gone mainstream, not only on race day but also on everyday runs.
RISE OF THE 'ILLEGAL RUNNING SHOES
Banned shoes emerged at a basketball court long before they found their way onto a marathon course.
CRACKING THE SLEEP CODE
Are you an early bird or a night owl? Perhaps you've assigned yourself another animal after completing an internet quiz. Research is shedding light on the link between well-being and circadian predisposition, but there's no need to rewire yourself. Learn to lean into your biology with our guide.
THE SECRET TO SPEED IS IN YOUP BLOOD
Some of the world's best runners credit this unorthodox Norwegian training method for their success. Is it right for you?
THE MIND OF MASSYN
IN 2024, LOUIS MASSYN WILL ATTEMPT HIS 49TH COMRADES MARATHON AND HE'S LEARNT PLENTY OF LESSONS ALONG THE WAY. HERE'S THE STORY OF HIS AMAZING JOURNEY.
TAKING CHARGE
OUTSPOKEN AND AMBITIOUS, NEW COMRADES RACE MANAGER (AND FORMER WINNER) ANN ASHWORTH IS LOOKING TO TAKE THE RACE INTO THE FUTURE.
A HALF CENTURY OF COMRADES
THIS YEAR, BARRY HOLLAND WILL BE AIMING TO FINISH HIS 50TH CONSECUTIVE COMRADES MARATHON. THIS IS WHAT HAS INSPIRED HIM.
MY RUNNING LIFE
ORDINARY RUNNERS doing EXTRAORDINARY THINGS
Ageing In The Age Of Strava
RECENTLY MY BUDDY Sean sent a text message that said, “Been running a lot of 5:30–6:00 kays early. It feels pretty nice at that pace.”
How To Start A Run When You Don't Feel Like It
I'VE ALWAYS FELT validation when reading a story about writers and their love of procrastination.